About Us

Mens Sana In Corpore Sano - A Sound Mind in a Sound Body - a motto to guide us.

For over 100 years, our headmasters, faculty, and trustees have built a school community in which each student receives a well-rounded, progressive, and compassionate education. Through meaningful lessons, our students grow into conscientious leaders, creative problem-solvers, and culturally aware citizens who connect to their school, local, and global communities. Our educational traditions, along with our continuing innovation in teaching and learning practices, benefit and provide a multitude of opportunities for our students. Our diverse and forward-thinking alumni are evidence of this success. All of these elements come together to keep Detroit Country Day School at the forefront of education in the 21st century.

Mission - Detroit Country Day School develops citizens and leaders of the world in a culturally diverse environment of academic rigor, competitive athletics, and artistic expression, built on a foundation of service and character.

DEI Statement: Detroit Country Day School believes diversity, equity, and inclusion are educational imperatives for the intellectual, social, and moral growth of every child. We honor the dignity of every human being and value the differences that exist and are expressed throughout our vibrant school. Members of our community are treated fairly and provided access to genuine opportunities to thrive. Our commitment is to nurturing an inclusive environment in which all students can participate fully and have a sense of belonging. Diversity, equity, and inclusion enrich learning and are essential characteristics of our school community.

 

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In the beginning

Portrait of Mr. Shaw and Ferry Street house

F. Alden Shaw ~ Founder and First Headmaster

On a ship back from Paris where he attended Haute de E'cole, Mr. Shaw recalls an acquaintance raving about the wondrous opportunities in a blossoming American city of Detroit, Michigan. He decided this is where he would begin his dream of founding an all-boys school.

Read more history  

Diverse Community

We welcome students from all backgrounds and strive to maintain and grow our diverse community. 

1500+ Students 

Two locations: The Lower School is at our Maple Road Campus and the Middle and Upper Schools are at our connected Hillview and Thirteen Mile Campuses.

Alumni

Our alumni live around the world and are leaders in industry, medicine, government, law, and humanitarian causes.

Participation

All of our students participate in community service, clubs, and athletics/performing arts.

Proud members of: 

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