Cheongna Dalton School

Cheongna Dalton School (CDS) isn’t just a school—it’s a dynamic, international learning community where students grow into independent thinkers and global citizens. Nestled in the heart of Cheongna, Incheon, CDS offers an American-style education rooted in the Dalton Plan, a philosophy that encourages responsibility, collaboration, and a love for lifelong learning.

Since opening its doors on September 1, 2011, CDS has been shaping young minds from pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, all within a vibrant, English-only environment. The school offers both day-school and dormitory options, though its youngest learners head home at the end of each day. With a sprawling 46,200 m² (11.4-acre) campus, students have space to explore, create, and connect.

Inspired by the vision of the original Dalton School in New York, CDS follows the pioneering educational approach of Helen Parkhurst, fostering an atmosphere of curiosity and academic excellence. The school provides Advanced Placement (AP) courses, preparing students for the next step in their academic journey. Its commitment to quality education is reflected in its WASC accreditation, first granted in 2012.

CDS is truly an international school, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds. To enroll, students must either have at least one parent with a foreign passport or have spent at least 1,095 days outside of South Korea. More than just meeting admissions requirements, though, families choose CDS for its close-knit community, innovative teaching, and dedication to student success.