Roots of Excellence

Our story begins with two schools that dared to defy convention. In 1899, educator May Margaret Fine opened Miss Fine’s School at 42 Mercer Street, preparing young women for college at a time when few expected them to pursue higher education. Her rigorous academic program signaled a powerful belief — that they deserved the same access to higher education long afforded to their male peers. In 1924, Princeton Country Day opened on Bayard Lane, offering an exceptional elementary education for boys and fostering a tradition of academic and character development.

In 1965, these two flourishing schools came together through the visionary support of philanthropist Dean Mathey. The merger formed Princeton Day School — a bold new chapter in coeducational learning, grounded in more than a century of educational courage. United by shared values and a pioneering spirit, they created something greater than either could achieve alone.

Today, that same spirit propels us forward, honoring the legacy of educators, students, and families who have always believed that intellectual vitality knows no boundaries.

Explore the complete history of PDS below.