Freshman Orientation
Each September, the ninth grade travels to Craigville Conference Center in Centerville, Massachusetts, to get to know each other and to familiarize themselves with the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Schools. Class moderators and other ninth grade faculty accompany the girls on the three-day trip. While there, the girls take part in group challenges, guided discussions and participate in a number of NCDS traditions. This trip also proves to be the beginning of many lasting friendships. The class returns to campus with a strong sense of class unity that they will carry with them through their four years in the high school.
Y.S.O.P.
The Junior Class visits New York City in mid September to participate in a service program on focusing on homelessness administered by the Youth Service Opportunities Project. The project gives our students valuable experiences which enhances their understanding of the social issues covered in the Religion 11 curriculum. Part of their experience includes doing community service in small groups throughout New York City. During the trip they also visit historical and cultural sites in the city. In past years they have visited the Museum of Natural History, the Empire State Building, Ground Zero, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Ellis Island and The United Nations. Participation in this trip is a graduation requirement.
Chewonki
In early May, the Freshman Class participates in an outdoor program at Camp Chewonki in Wiscasset, Maine. The Chewonki Foundation offers experiential education programs whose goal it is to encourage participants to develop their personal potential, gain a sense of community, and heighten their interest in and understanding of the natural world.
Faculty members accompany the group and assist the Chewonki faculty. The freshman class is divided into groups of ten to twelve girls and follow an encampment campsite model. All encampments are located on a tidal shore with access to salt water. Each encampment is self-sufficient with all the food and equipment needed for the entire program. Most lessons, activities and meals take place outdoors. Indoor space is available in case of severe weather.
Newton Country Day School has made a significant commitment to experiential education and each student's participation is an important part of the program. We have worked in partnership with the Chewonki Foundation for a number of years with very positive results and look forward to continuing to do so. Participation in this trip is a graduation requirement.