Inspiring academic excellence since 1997 Madison Country Day School (MCDS) is Dane County's only non-sectarian independent Pre-Kindergarten _ Grade 12 school. Launched by a small group of independent-minded students families and community members in 1997 the driving force behind our success is our blend of academic excellence in an inspiring environment. Academic excellence begins with a rigorous world-class curriculum. Coupled with our small class sizes and individualized instruction the MCDS curriculum is the cornerstone of one of the country's finest college-preparatory educations.