Academics

Upper School

Choices and Challenges

Upper School provides a rigorous academic experience in a fully supportive atmosphere.

English electives include topics that would make challenging undergraduate seminars: Modern Voices of Minority Experience, Shakespeare, American Expatriates and the 1920s.

For mathematics and computer studies, two courses are offered beyond the two-year sequence in calculus.

Language students are able to reach a level of fluency that allows them to study literature in French, Latin, Chinese or Spanish.

In the sciences, sophisticated instruments and software allow lab teams to focus on analysis and understanding. In fact, Princeton Day School students often perform experiments presented only as instructor demonstrations at many colleges.

Along with these challenges come choices -- in electives, extracurricular activities, even advisors -- allowing each PDS student to shape a unique educational experience.

And when it's time to move on, students can rely on college counselors for help finding opportunities matching their interests, aptitudes, goals and personality. We are proud of the ability and diversity of PDS graduates.

Take a Look

Princeton Day School Architecture Class from Kelsh Wilson Design on Vimeo.

The Arts

Arts programs offer the opportunity to think in new ways. Visual Arts, Woodworking, & Design

We offer a rich array of studio courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, video and media arts, ceramics, and photography. These include options for students who have a general interest and for those who want to make a serious commitment, exhibiting work, entering competitions, or preparing college portfolios.

Architecture
With a selection of more than a half-dozen elective courses, students have the chance to explore concepts in depth and to create ambitious original works, all in a dedicated space that emulates a professional architectural design studio.

Theater
Widely recognized for its excellence, the theater program offers students the chance to take several courses, from the introductory to the advanced level, and to take part in one or more of its main stage productions each year, either as a performer or a member of the technical theater crew. The annual Performing Arts Festival provides another chance for all members of the school community to get involved.

Music
Our music program is varied and rich, and offers opportunities for student musicians of all levels of experience and expertise. Courses include Music Theory at the introductory and AP levels, Band, Orchestra, and Chorus. Numerous formal and informal concerts and gatherings throughout the year showcase student achievement. Private instruction in voice and instruments is available through arrangement with our adjunct music faculty before, during, or after school. Extracurricular options include the Madrigal Singers, Chamber Music ensembles, and student-led A Cappella groups. (please see Music Opportunities)

Dance
The dance program offers classes for students of all levels of ability. Using technical skills culled from ballet, jazz and modern dance styles, dancing with healthy body alignment and embodying the rudiments of Western dance styles is a focus for all levels. Annual performances highlighting student work as well as field trips to NYC round out an exciting year of dance.

For details, please visit the Upper School Curriculum or The Arts pages.

Athletics

“One of the great things about sports at PDS is the chance to play. You should know that you have the opportunity to show your stuff and play varsity if you’re ready to."
-- Brooks Herr '10, three-sport varsity athlete

Our 105-acre campus features extensive playing fields, including a turf field and an ice rink. An expansive new fitness facility is staffed by a dedicated performance coach who focuses on strength and conditioning with athletes in all sports.

PDS, a member of the large schools division of the Patriot Conference, also competes in the Interac /Friends Volleyball League, Women’s Interscholastic Hockey League of the Mid-Atlantic, Bianchi Division of the New Jersey Interscholastic Lacrosse League, and the Bedesem Division of the Central Jersey Women’s Lacrosse League. Upper School teams For more details, visit Athletics.

Community

Student Clubs

Warmth and Welcome
“I chose PDS because of the academic rigor and the strong sense of community. I was overwhelmed by how well everyone treats each other. From the start, I felt so welcome and included.”
-- Rebecca Golden '10

Focused Yet Informal
“This is a real place of learning. Everyone is here because they want to be here and they want to do well. Everyone helps each other. You see an informality in the way people dress and a relaxed atmosphere, but PDS kids are serious students.”
-- Brendan Clune '12

Finding Your Niche
“I play basketball, soccer, and golf. I’m in the Athletic Association, the Debate Club, and the Gay-Straight Alliance. I also helped start a hip-hop appreciation group. PDS offers you so many opportunities to get involved, to make friends, and to balance your school work with something fun after 3:15.” -- Christopher Bonnaig '11