Fast Facts

History: 

In 1991, the founders of the Green River Preserve, a nature camp for academically gifted students, proposed the idea to establish a school that combined a nurturing environment with a curriculum enriched by hands-on learning experiences.  Hickory Day School opened in the fall of 1993.

Accreditation: 

Hickory Day School received authorization as an International Baccalaureate PYP (kindergarten through grade 5) school in 2005 and the Southern Association of Independent Schools(SAIS) in November 2017.  We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Leadership: 

HDS is governed by a Board of Trustees, which oversees the financial and strategic direction of the school and manages the Head of School.  The Head of School is responsible for its daily operations and curriculum.

Curriculum: 

The PYP Program (grades K - 5) follows the IBO curriculum so that students learn through an inquiry-based philosophy of developing lifelong learners and global thinkers.  Students integrate IB values and attributes into core and co-curricular subjects as they complete six organized units of inquiry throughout the school year based on the transdisciplinary themes of the IB curriculum:  who we are, where we are in space and time, sharing the planet, how we express ourselves, how we organize ourselves, and how the world works.

The middle school (6-8) curriculum comprises eight subject areas and continues the integration of the values of the school (and the IBO) into its course of study. 

Student-Initiated Actions & Community Involvement: 

Student-initiated actions at Hickory Day School have inspired meaningful partnerships and service projects that encourage students to make a positive impact in their community and beyond. Past initiatives have supported organizations and causes such as the Crayola ColorCycle program, Castle of Cans, World Wildlife Fund, Charity: Water, UNICEF, and the Catawba County Humane Society.

As students complete their IB Primary Years Programme journey, sixth-grade Exhibition Projects provide an opportunity to explore important global and community issues through inquiry, research, and action. Past Exhibition themes have included sustainable living, bullying, homelessness, natural disasters, deforestation, house fires, and veterans’ affairs. Through these projects, students apply their learning to real-world challenges while developing empathy, critical-thinking skills, and a commitment to responsible action.  Click here to learn more.

Faculty 

We currently have 30 faculty and staff members.

Lunch

Students are required to bring their snacks and lunches every day. Every class has a morning break and lunches begin at noon.

After-School Program

Hickory Day School is pleased to offer a comprehensive after-school program for students in Kindergarten through eighth grade from 3:15–5:30 p.m. Following a challenging and engaging school day, students enjoy a safe, supervised environment where they can relax, connect with friends, and participate in meaningful activities.

Daily hands-on Homework Help is available for students for one hour after school, providing additional support and encouraging strong study habits. Students also have opportunities to explore their interests through a variety of clubs, athletic offerings, and co-curricular programs, including Art Club, Archery Club, Kindness Club, Chess Club, and more.

Our after-school program extends the HDS experience beyond the classroom by fostering creativity, collaboration, independence, and community while providing families with a convenient and enriching option for afternoon care.