Metairie Park Country Day was founded in 1929 by a group of families who wanted an alternative to the traditional public, private, and parochial schooling available in the New Orleans area. The first young classes assembled in the current administration building, completed just in time to open for the academic year. Until the 1950s, Country Day even had a small boarding department. Since that time County Day has evolved into a Pre-K through Grade 12 institution of 730 students and 95 full and part-time faculty, with an early childhood program added in 1986. Its founding educational philosophy - defined in the current mission statement - is captured in Mr. Boothby's original conversation with prospective parents at the founding of the School: “Study of the individual child, and effort to satisfy his or her needs; Freedom to develop naturally, which does not mean license to invade other people's rights; Attention to play and physical development for every child; The utilization of children's interests for educational ends; A large place for beauty in nature, in art, in music; Friendly relationship between pupils and teachers, with teachers functioning as guides rather than taskmasters; Such cooperation between school and home as will make the two, supplementing each other, provide for the whole development of the child.” Over time, Metairie Park Country Day School incorporated much of the traditional college preparatory model as its student body sought college placement in an increasingly competitive college marketplace. Throughout its history, it has claimed among its graduates many of the most innovative leaders in the Greater New Orleans community and beyond. The strength of the bonds among Country Day alumni are almost legendary. Through it all, Metairie Park Country Day School has created a family, an extension of home for many, and a safe place for learning, nurturing, and exploring the world in which we live.