We are thrilled to announce the implementation of a new house system at Country Day School, designed to strengthen community bonds, foster healthy competition, whilst celebrating the vibrant biodiversity of Costa Rica. This system will play a pivotal role in enhancing school spirit and providing students with opportunities to develop teamwork, leadership, and a sense of belonging.
What is the House System?
The house system is a well-established tradition in schools around the world, where students are grouped into smaller communities called "houses." Each house functions as a team, allowing students and staff to work together across grade levels, build connections, and participate in a variety of academic, athletic, and creative activities.
At our school, we have chosen to name the houses after iconic Costa Rican animal species:
- Toucans
- Sloths
- Monkeys
- Iguanas
These animals not only represent Costa Rica’s rich natural heritage but also embody unique qualities such as adaptability, teamwork, and resilience that we hope to inspire in our students.
Purpose and Importance of the House System
The house system is more than just a way to organize students; it serves several key purposes:
- Fostering Community: By grouping students across grades into houses, we aim to create smaller, more inclusive communities within the school. This helps students feel a sense of belonging and builds connections between peers of different ages.
- Encouraging Teamwork: Each house works together to earn points through various events and activities, teaching students the value of collaboration and mutual support.
- Building Leadership Skills: Students will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within their houses, such as house captains or event organizers. These roles encourage responsibility and personal growth.
- Promoting Healthy Competition: Through house-based competitions in sports, academics, and other creative pursuits, students can channel their energy and enthusiasm into achieving common goals.
- Celebrating Diversity: Naming the houses after Costa Rican animals is a tribute to the country’s incredible biodiversity and reinforces our commitment to environmental awareness and conservation.
How Does It Work?
Each student has been assigned to a house, and siblings will belong to the same house to encourage family involvement. Throughout the school year, houses will compete in a variety of events, including:
- Sports tournaments
- Academic challenges
- Leadership events
Points will be awarded based on participation, teamwork, and achievement, culminating in an annual House Cup awarded to the house with the highest total points.
Why Toucans, Sloths, Monkeys, and Iguanas?
Costa Rica’s unique wildlife symbolizes qualities that align with the values we want to instill in our students:
- Toucans: Vibrant and social, toucans remind us of the importance of communication and community.
- Sloths: Known for their calm and measured approach, sloths teach us patience and mindfulness.
- Monkeys: Playful and clever, monkeys exemplify creativity and teamwork.
- Iguanas: Resilient and adaptive, iguanas inspire us to embrace change and challenges.
Get Involved
We invite parents to support the house system by encouraging their children to participate enthusiastically in house activities and by attending events where possible. Together, we can create an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to contribute.
We look forward to seeing our Toucans, Sloths, Monkeys, and Iguanas soar to new heights this year!
