Savannah Country Day School

Deep in the heart of Savannah, nestled amidst the sprawling live oaks and Spanish moss, lies the Savannah Country Day School. Its story isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s a tale woven from the threads of history, ambition, and a dedication to nurturing young minds. Savannah Country Day School began its life in 1955, born from the legacy of the Pape School, founded in 1905 by Nina Anderson Pape. A group of parents, including Cornelia Groves, envisioned a new institution, one that would carry the torch of education forward. They took the reins of Pape School, absorbing its faculty, its curriculum, and even its original location east of Forsyth Park. Savannah Country Day School’s journey took a significant turn in 1960. The school relocated to its present-day home in Windsor Park, a tranquil haven south of Savannah’s bustling center. This 65-acre campus, shaded by majestic trees, became the new stage for countless stories of learning and growth. A pivotal moment in the school’s history arrived in the 1970s. The school charted an independent course, choosing not to affiliate with the Episcopal Church. This decision marked a commitment to inclusivity and self-governance. Under the leadership of Dr. Paul M. Pressly, who became headmaster in 1983, Savannah Country Day School embarked on a path of academic excellence. Dr. Pressly, a scholar with degrees from Princeton, Harvard, and Oxford, crafted a long-term vision that propelled the school forward. The school’s commitment to education earned national recognition. In 1991, the U.S. Department of Education named Savannah Country Day School a National School of Excellence, a distinction shared by only a handful of independent schools. The accolades continued with the Blue Ribbon Schools Program award in 1992, solidifying its reputation as a beacon of learning. In 2013, Kef L. Wilson took the helm as the eighth headmaster, ushering in a new era. Savannah Country Day School continues to evolve. The school’s commitment to sustainability earned it recognition as a Green Ribbon School in 2012, and in 2008, they dedicated Chatham County’s first Silver LEED-certified lower school. The school’s gardens, started in the 1970s, now provide a hands-on learning experience for students. From planting seeds to harvesting vegetables, these young gardeners nurture not just plants, but also a sense of responsibility and connection to the earth. Savannah Country Day School has consistently been lauded as the “Best Private School” by both Savannah Magazine and Connect Savannah. It offers small class sizes, summer programs, and even a “Little School” for the youngest learners. The Savannah Country Day School’s story is one of growth, achievement, and an unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing environment for students to thrive. It’s a story that continues to unfold, with each graduating class adding a new chapter to its rich legacy.