• Vision
    Our vision is to be a global PK-12 school community where excellence in values-based, purposeful, and experiential learning happens for every student, every day, everywhere: at home, in the classroom, in Miami, and around the globe.
  • Mission
    Miami Country Day School empowers every student, every day, everywhere to learn with vigor, explore with purpose, strive for excellence, and serve with honor, respect, and compassion as global citizens. We do this in a community where every student is known and included by engaging the whole child, in and out of the classroom as they discover their full potential.
  • Values
    MCDS lives its mission by faithfully guarding its values of Purpose, Honor, Respect, Compassion, and Wisdom; and ensuring they are manifest in our policies, programs, and practices. Our values are the shared commitments we make to each other, and as a community, in honor of our past, present, and future.
  • Plan
    Our 2020 Strategic Plan set the course for the future of MCDS by focusing on aligning the student experience with our Core Values from PK3-12th grade, strengthening community, and developing leadership and talent. It also emphasized enhancing the school's profile through effective communication and engagement. This plan informed our campus master plan, which envisions creating the ideal learning environment through facilities and programs that support student-centered exploration and growth. Our upcoming fundraising campaign will focus on the most urgent facility needs to advance these commitments and deliver the experience our students, families, and faculty deserve.

Campaign Objectives

List of 3 items.

  • 5M

    Endowment

  • 65M

    Capital Projects

  • 8M

    Spartan Impact Fund

Opportunity To Build the Legacy

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Mariandl Hufford 

President & Head of School

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Dan Harwin

Co-Chairman of Campaign Cabinet Committee

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Caitlin Forsthoefel

Interim Director of Advancement

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Campaign Cabinet Committee

The Campaign Cabinet is a group of 13 dedicated donors and volunteers who actively support the School’s campaign. Members, whether Trustees or non-Trustees, advocate for campaign priorities, publicly back the School’s mission and leadership, and communicate the campaign’s case for support to the community. They help shape policies like donor recognition, attend regular meetings and trainings, and play a key role in identifying, cultivating, and stewarding major donors. Cabinet members also participate in campaign events and ceremonies, ensuring the campaign's success.
  • Karin Ajmani
  • Sean Clancy
  • David Forbes
  • Daniel Harwin, Campaign Co-Chair
  • Jared Lustbader
  • Melissa Lustbader
  • Gerald Moore ‘68
  • Lauren Roth
  • Anna Schneur
  • Randall Starr
  • Richard Tester
  • Velda Turan

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List of 3 items.

  • The Woodhouse Athletic Center

    • Groundbreaking August 2024
    • Projected Opening Date November 2025

    The Woodhouse Athletic Center

  • The Upper School

    • Groundbreaking Summer 2026
    • Projected Opening Date Fall 2028

    The Upper School

  • ACES

    • Groundbreaking TBD
    • Projected Opening Date TBD

    • Gallery Campaign

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    • Gallery Campaign

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    • Gallery Campaign

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Case for Support

Thanks to our donors

Coming Soon

Naming Opportunities will be added here for download.
  • Orlando Bravo
  • Nicholas Woodhouse
  • Matthew Lazenby
  • David Forbes
  • Daniel Harwin
  • Richard Tester
  • The Garner Foundation, Inc.
  • Cecily Eaton
  • Miami Country Day School - Parents' Association
  • Jared Lustbader
  • Pete Ormond
  • Yoav Roth
  • Claudia Brod
  • Melina Starr
  • Anna Schneur
  • J. Randall Waterfield
  • Orlando Bravo
  • Adam Bergman
  • Ryan Schinman
  • John Brecker
  • Christopher Bellows
  • Daniel Standen
  • Josh Mandel
  • Kevin King
  • Mariandl Hufford
  • Ajit Ajmani
  • Alexandra Haime-Salanic
  • Kathy Haime
  • Leonard Abess
  • Karleen Halliwell
  • Christopher Fiore
  • Todd Michaels
  • Lance Tinkler
  • Gregg Miller
  • Peter Pietrzkiewicz
  • Sean Clancy
  • Alex Kleyner
  • Arie Jusidman
  • Janice Barefoot
  • Lauren Feld
  • Cesar Barroso Mendez
  • Eugenie Jeffries
  • Robert Finvarb
  • Sebastian Malo
  • Steven White
  • Adriana De Rivera
  • Natalie Brod
  • Amanda Barouh
  • Matthew Storm
  • Scott Tomlinson

Latest News

List of 3 news stories.

  • Build the Legacy Update

    "Build the Legacy” Campaign Reaches 41% of Goal
    Miami Country Day School is making steady progress toward its ambitious $78 million "Build the Legacy" campaign goal. This major fundraising initiative aims to support key priorities that will strengthen the school’s mission and community impact.

    As of the latest update, the campaign has reached 41% of its total goal, with a combined total of $32,114,500 raised from pledges and verbal commitments. This figure includes $14,049,500 in pledged contributions and an additional $18,050,000 in verbal commitments from five key donors.
    To date, the school has secured 46 total gifts, showcasing the strong support from its community of donors. Furthermore, $1,000,000 in pending commitments from one contributor signals continued momentum as the school works to close the gap and achieve its goal.


    Build the Legacy

    While significant strides have been made, there is still a long way to go to fully realize the transformative vision this campaign supports.

    Miami Country Day School remains committed to inspiring generosity and engaging its community as it continues the push toward the finish line. Stay tuned for future updates on this exciting journey as Miami Country Day School works to “Build the Legacy” for generations to come.

  • Building Community: Connecting and Listening

    Over the past few months, I've embarked on an important and transformative journey—one that has been about much more than just building a new upper school and athletic center. It's been about building connections, understanding our community's hopes, and working together toward a shared vision.

    Opening My Home, Opening Conversations
    This fall, I hosted seven campaign briefings, either over breakfast or lunch, and while I shared important information, these sessions have been so much more than that.  By inviting families into my personal space, I sought to create an environment of openness, trust, and genuine dialogue. My home transformed into a gathering place where dreams for our community could take shape.

    Listening and Learning
    What struck me most during these conversations was the enthusiasm for a new upper school or athletic center, yes, but also the genuine interest in creating a campus environment that reflects the exceptional programming that takes place in our school every day. The questions posed were thoughtful and insightful. Many comments surrounded the continued support for teachers, who are the lifeblood of our school. It was truly humbling to see how much our teachers are loved and appreciated.  

    The Heart of Building the Legacy
    Families aren't just interested in new buildings—they're invested in creating environments that nurture potential, foster community spirit, and provide opportunities for growth. Each conversation reinforced the importance of our project:
    • A new upper school isn't just about classrooms, but about creating spaces where students can imagine and pursue their futures. Spaces where teachers can design learning experiences that are relevant and deeply engaging. 
    • The planned athletic center represents more than physical infrastructure—it's about building teamwork, discipline, and personal development- emphasizing physical and emotional well-being while enhancing school and community spirit. 

    Moving Forward
    As we continue to work towards realizing this project, I carry with me the stories shared in these intimate conversations. Each meeting has reinforced my commitment to creating spaces that truly serve our community.
    This journey has been about so much more than campaign updates. It's been about connection, understanding, and shared dreams.


    Sincerely,
    Mariandl Hufford
    President & Head of School
    Italian Trulli

  • Informing Our Future: Strategic Insights from Campaign Planning Efforts

    In partnership with our campaign consultants, the school conducted a Campaign Planning Study
    to inform and strengthen our fundraising strategy. This initiative focused on educating and
    cultivating prospective donors about Miami Country Day School’s campaign objectives,
    gathering data on their belief in the campaign, and preparing the school for a successful
    fundraising effort. As part of this process, the Advancement team collaborated with the
    President and Head of School, Mariandl Hufford, to host seven Campaign Briefing events at her
    home, where attendees received an in-depth presentation of the campaign.

    Out of the 41 attendees, 35 were confidentially interviewed by our consultants, who gathered
    valuable qualitative data for a comprehensive analysis. The feedback about the campaign at
    these briefings were positive, with attendees highly engaged and posing thoughtful questions.
    We look forward to receiving the final report of findings on January 30th.

    Our consultants play a vital role in this process, bringing their expertise to guide the campaign's
    strategic direction, ensure thorough evaluation, and provide the school with actionable insights
    for long-term success. Their partnership is instrumental in helping us achieve our ambitious
    goals.
Archive
Edition 1 for Year 1:

The Legacy Ledger

The Legacy Ledger is your monthly update on the progress and achievements of our campaign, highlighting milestones, stories, and the impact we’re building together. Delivered to all campaign donors on the 15th of each month, this newsletter offers a clear and inspiring look at how your support is shaping a meaningful legacy. Keep an eye out every month for the latest updates and insights.

List of 1 news stories.

  • Edition 1, Coming Soon

    Edition 1 for Year One
    The Legacy Ledger is your monthly update on the progress and achievements of our campaign, highlighting milestones, stories, and the impact we’re building together. Delivered to all campaign donors on the 15th of each month, this newsletter offers a clear and inspiring look at how your support is shaping a meaningful legacy. Keep an eye out every month for the latest updates and insights.
Archive

The Ground Breaking Ceremony

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FAQ'S

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List of 5 frequently asked questions.

  • Why is this campaign important now?

    The results of this campaign will support the pressing need for updated campus facilities providing more flexible and collaborative spaces that are in line with today’s learning and teaching.

    The launch of The Every Student, Every Day Campaign resulted from the school’s strategic vision and strategic planning. The work started over four years ago to ensure an intricate planning process to provide a learning environment for all ages that meets the needs of students and teachers in the 21st century.

  • What are the priorities of the campaign, what will they cost, and when will they be ready?

    The campaign's priorities are grounded in the needs of our student body and the community.
    NOTE: These are projected costs and timelines that may adjust depending on the economy and natural construction challenges.
    • A new Athletic Fitness Center - $20 million – open fall 2025. This facility will enhance the current athletic facilities. It will feature a state-of-the art championship gym, fitness center, a larger and more up-to-date training room, locker rooms, coach’s suite, and swag store. Most important, it supports students’ wellness by offering a second gym so practices can be held simultaneously and relieve some of the late-night practices that keep students here until 9 p.m.
    • A new modern Upper School building and dining facility - $50 million – 2028. This state-of-the-art facility will be 70,000 s.f. vs. the current 32,000 s.f. and will provide more flexible and larger learning spaces, including outdoor gathering spaces. It will include a dining facility for Middle and Upper School students that can serve as an event space. It will also allow the current cafeteria in the Garner Center to be retrofitted for our youngest students.
    • The Abess Center for Environmental Studies will be a new facility with closer proximity to the Lower School and the canal, which will enhance the opportunities for our youngest Spartans to explore nature and the outdoor environment, animal habitats, and all aspects of the sciences.
    All of these important initiatives directly impact the educational experience of every student, enhancing both their academic and extracurricular opportunities.

  • Who were the decision makers for this plan?

    The decision-making process involved key stakeholders dedicated to our school's success. The Board of Trustees approves all annual and multi-fundraising initiatives at the school, including this campaign. There were focus groups also that involved students, teachers, parents, and alumni.

  • Who is leading the campaign?

    From an internal perspective, the Campaign is being led by a dedicated team comprising the Future Vision Committee of the Board, the President and Head of School, and our experienced philanthropy team. Together, they bring expertise, passion, and a shared commitment to realizing our school's vision for excellence.

    External stakeholders include our collaboration with experts such as an owner's representative, architects, and general contractors. Additionally, we have a third-party fundraising consultant who provides valuable counsel on our methodology, phasing approach, and keeping up-to-speed on industry standards.

  • How long will the campaign last?

    With the Board's approval, the campaign fundraising commenced in October 2023 and is projected to continue through the 2028-2029 fiscal year. This extended timeframe allows for thorough planning, effective fundraising efforts, and the successful implementation of vital campus improvements, ensuring a bright future for generations of students to come.

List of 3 frequently asked questions.

  • How was the $75 million working goal determined?

    The determination of the $75 million working goal was a meticulous process guided by thorough analysis and collaboration. Our third-party consultant, GG+A conducted a campaign readiness study and provided invaluable insights, allowing us to assess the feasibility
    of our fundraising target.

    Additionally, close collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer and the Business Office ensured a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape. Informal interviews further enriched our understanding of donor potential and aspirations. Through this
    multifaceted approach, we arrived at a goal that reflects both the ambitious scope of our initiative and the realistic expectations of our community.

  • To date, how much money has been raised?

    The response from our community has been extraordinary. Initial families have embraced our vision with overwhelming enthusiasm, both verbally and financially. Since October 2023, we have reached a remarkable milestone for our community, raising $10.6 million from 18 families. This achievement speaks to the generosity of our supporters and signifies a historic moment for our school, surpassing any previous fundraising efforts. It's a testament to the collective belief
    in the transformative impact of our initiatives and the unwavering dedication of our community.

  • Will the school borrow money and how will it be paid back?

    Yes, given the ambitious nature of our undertaking, we recognize the need for a multifaceted approach to funding. While philanthropy remains a cornerstone of our strategy, it's evident that additional financial support is necessary to realize our goals fully. As such, we will be leveraging the opportunity to borrow money to supplement our fundraising efforts.

    Securing a $35 million bond demonstrates our commitment to advancing our initiatives in a timely and sustainable manner. This strategic approach ensures that we can proceed with confidence, maintaining the momentum of our progress while upholding the fiscal responsibility expected of us. The bond has a 30-year payback period which will be paid from the secured pledge payments and the operating funds allocated by the FORA (Financial Oversight and Risk Assessment) Committee of the Board.

List of 3 frequently asked questions.

  • What does each phase entail and how long will each take?

    We will break ground on the New Athletic Fitness Center summer of 2024 with an estimated timeline of 14 months. It will be ready for students in late fall 2025.

    For the New Upper School, pending county zoning and permitting, construction will be expected to start spring of 2026. The projected 18-month construction aims for students to be using the building by August 2028.

    Renovating and relocating the Abess Center will be contingent upon progress from the first two projects.

  • Will this be disruptive to our students? Will they be displaced in any way?

    Safety and security are a priority. All construction workers will undergo a thorough background check. Furthermore, while any construction project inevitably brings some level of disruption, rest assured that we are prioritizing minimal impact on our students. Our approach involves strategic planning with industry experts to ensure a smooth process. Every individual involved in the project in any way will have background checks. We'll utilize the summer months when school is not in session to maximize productivity. Additionally, we're coordinating with contractors to minimize noise and debris during crucial times during the school day. Comfort and convenience for our community remain paramount throughout this endeavor.

  • When will all construction be complete for these initiatives?

    We are unable to provide an exact date based on numerous variables around county approvals, funding, and inevitable construction challenges. Our hope is for all three projects to be completed by 2030.

List of 6 frequently asked questions.

  • May I make a campaign pledge over a period of time?

    Absolutely! Donors can choose the timing and structure of their pledges to suit their preferences. Whether it's a one-time gift or spread out over five years, every contribution is vital to our campaign's success. This flexibility ensures that all donors can make a meaningful impact on our shared goals. Fulfilling a gift over a period of time is often helpful when considering stretch gifts.

  • Is there an expected amount per family?

    While there is not an expected donation amount, it is important for those who are able to do so, make their best gift possible. The ability to successfully reach the goal and bring these initiatives to life as soon as possible, depends on top level leadership gifts. Before opening the campaign in a more public way, conversations with those capable of six and seven figure gifts are underway.

  • Are there opportunities for donors to name spaces with a gift?

    Yes! Recognizing the profound impact of our donors' generosity is paramount to us. While we are finalizing the details for the naming opportunities, spaces will be available, initially starting with the Athletic Wellness Center given that this is our first project.

  • Will the Spartan Impact Fund (SIF) continue throughout the campaign?

    Yes, SIF will continue to be a vital component to our school and to the campaign. By integrating it into our campaign overall goal, we unify fundraising efforts. Over the next five years, we aim to sustain our goal of $2,000,000 annually, empowering our community to contribute to the ongoing enhancement of our programs and teachers. This commitment reflects our dedication to fostering a philanthropic culture that ensures our school's excellence for future generations.

  • My child is graduating in the next few years. Why should I contribute if they’re not even going to use it?

    The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.
    ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

    As you walk the campus, you see names like Katherine E. Franco Center, The Garner Center and the Whitman Library, reminders of those who left a legacy for future generations. Their generosity, despite not having children at the school since 1999, helped shape the institution we cherish today.

    Contributing to the school isn't just about benefiting your child; it's about investing in a legacy of learning. Your support ensures that future students have access to the same opportunities. Like planting trees whose shade, we may never sit under, your contribution leaves a lasting impact for years to come, enriching the lives of students yet to come. Together, let's continue the tradition of generosity and excellence, ensuring a brighter future for all who pass through
    these doors.

  • Whom do I contact if I want to discuss a campaign gift?

    Please contact Chief Philanthropy Officer, Scott Tomlinson at 786-417-2684 or tomlinsons@miamicountryday.org, or other members of the Philanthropy Team.

Spartan Athletic Center

The Spartan Athletic Center, on which we broke ground in spring 2024, will elevate Miami Country Day’s commitment to athletics as well as the physical health and wellness of every member of our community. With this new 30,000 square-foot facility which, fundraising-dependent, we hope to open in Fall of 2025, we will be able to support our commitment to the development of physical health equally with our commitment to supporting academic development

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Chuck Sennett
Athletics Director
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  • Spartan Athletic Hall of Fame

    A new lobby featuring the Spartan Athletic Hall of Fame, where the championships earned by our players and coaches will be highlighted and celebrated.
    Hall of Fame
     

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  • Gymnasium

    A new 11,000-square-foot championship arena gymnasium that will allow greater flexibility in scheduling, provide more dedicated practice times, and reduce scheduling conflicts for teams.
    The Gym
    The Gym
    The Gym

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  • Fitness Center

    A new two-story, 7,500 square-foot fitness center with a dedicated cardio area and multi-purpose rooms for group classes.
    The Fitness Room

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  • The Tunnel

    The new championship gymnasium will be connected to the existing gymnasium via the tunnel, creating an expansive and cohesive athletic facility.
    The Fitness Room

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  • The Lockers

    New locker rooms for both home and visiting teams, where student-athletes can dress and prepare for both practice and competition.
    The Gym1
    The Gym2

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  • Campus Store

    The School’s first-ever Spartan Store, where students, faculty, and families can purchase Spartan Merchandise.
    The spartan store
    The spartan store
    The spartan store
    Bravo Family
    Allyson Papunen
    Parents Association Names the Campus Store

The Ground Breaking Ceremony

Thursday, May 23 2024

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Latest Updates From the Construction

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      LATEST UPDATE

      Athletic Center project is well underway.

The Upper School

The new 76,000 square-foot Upper School and Dining Complex embodies the principles and mission of the Miami Country Day experience. Designed around courtyards and pavilions, the space seamlessly blends interior and exterior environments, fostering a learning atmosphere that harmonizes nature and community

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Michael Culley
Upper School Director
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  • Upper School Entry

    Twenty-four classrooms and eight labs, which will be organized to increase opportunities for interdisciplinary work so teachers can give students the chance to solve real-world problems.
    The Fitness Room

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  • Upper School Level 2

    Lab spaces located on every floor, to increase science curriculum crossover with other subjects.
    The Fitness Room

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  • Upper School Southeast

    Flexible room configurations, supported by upgraded technology, water, and power will enable a broader range of learning styles and courses to be taught. Teachers will more easily utilize hands-on projects that engage students deeply and prepare them for the world they will inherit.
    The Fitness Room

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  • Upper School Southwest

    Unique outdoor spaces, such as the Upper School Terrace, STEM Lab Roof Garden, and Rooftop Terrace, which will create a strong sense of identity for the Upper School community, with views overlooking the Athletic Center and Field.
    The Fitness Room

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  • Upper School Courtyard

    The new 10,000-square-foot dining facility will support dining for approximately 250 people, which will enable:
    1. More climate-friendly practices like the use of reusable plates and silverware, thanks to an expanded kitchen
    2. Student and adult community meetings to take place in a comfortable setting
    3. A wide range of other events, including special dinners, lectures, and other group activities
    The Fitness Room

Abess Center for Environmental Studies (ACES):

Description: Stay tuned for more details on our exciting new Abess Center for Environmental Studies (ACES).

Why Attend A Private School In North Miami?

Our location within Miami Dade is perfectly positioned for parents and kids. Situated 15 minutes north of Downtown Miami, we are within a 25-minute drive of Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Aventura Mall, Lincoln Road, South Beach and a short drive from Miami Airport.

MCDS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State, or local laws.
601 NE 107th Street, Miami, FL 33161
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