Why MDS

Choosing an independent education for your child is not always an easy choice. Although we are in the minority in Burke County, over 2,000 independent schools nationwide serve over 700,000 students in grades pre-k through high school. So, what makes an independent school education, and MDS in particular, worth the time and expense each year for your child? 

· Morganton Day School nurtures intellectual curiosity, stimulates personal growth and encourages critical thinking. Our graduates excel in advanced courses in high school and college, and our test scores reveal high student success compared to other students on a national scale. 

· Small classes and individual attention - Morganton Day School intentionally maintains a low student-teacher ratio encouraging individualization and instruction designed specifically for your child. Our class sizes do not exceed 12 in JK-1 and 14 in the upper grades.

· Excellent teachers - Morganton Day School teachers are passionate about teaching. With more autonomy within the classroom, our teachers develop a full understanding of how each student learns and what interests and motivates each individual.

· Positioning your child for later success - Research from the National Association of Independent Schools indicates a greater likelihood of a student completing a bachelor's degree or graduate degree.

· Education for the whole child - Morganton Day School nurtures students' intellectual ability and curiosity as well as their personal and social growth and civic conscience. Opportunities for learning and involvement extend well beyond the classroom. 

· A community of parents who actively participate in their children's education - Morganton Day School views parents as partners in the educational process. Students, parents, and teachers work together to achieve the highest outcomes possible.

· And most important: An education that will pay dividends for a lifetime.

An MDS education is so much more than an investment—it’s a transformative experience. As a parent of an MDS graduate, a dedicated teacher, and a proud 28-year member of this incredible community, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact it has on our students.

At MDS, students develop a true love of learning. They don’t just chase grades; they seek knowledge, understanding, and personal growth. Their curiosity and drive continually amaze me. Just last week, our middle school students represented MDS with confidence and pride in Raleigh, presenting their Future City to over 1,000 people and earning second place in the state. Their poise and professionalism didn’t happen overnight. It began years ago—with opportunities to speak and present as early as Kindergarten.

From research projects to entrepreneurial ventures where students create, market, and sell their products, MDS instills confidence, creativity, and a belief in one’s abilities that last a lifetime. Education is so much more than memorizing facts and figures, and MDS is so much more than just a school—it’s a place where students are inspired to grow, lead, and thrive.

Together in Education and proud Titan,

Dr. Mikusa
Head of School