About
About

Learn more about James River Day School, our mission, and our educational philosophy. Our school, our faculty and staff, our Board, and our community are dedicated to constantly and consistently building a school program where we cherish and challenge our students in an environment of academic excellence.
Admissions
Admissions

Learn more about the difference James River will make in your child's education. Visit these pages and make arrangements to visit the school; there's no better way to see for yourself the impact of a James River education.
Programs
Programs

The advantages of the K-8 model provide an incomparable foundation for learners and the entirety of our programming is built around a single question -- "What is best for the child?" Children flourish at James River because they are supported as students and as persons. They are given the tools for lifelong learning and the tools of good character to function well in society, leaving it better than they found it.
Giving
Giving

James River Day School has relied on the support of our community since its founding. Partnerships with parents, grandparents, trustees, faculty and staff, alumni families, alumni, friends, and corporations have made it possible to provide our students with an unparalleled educational experience. Gifts to the Cardinal Annual Fund provide valuable operating support for all our programs.
Community
Community

James River Day School is a vital community of lifelong learners of all ages. Parents, students, alumni, and alumni families can find lots of information in this section.

James River Day School Home

Curiosity moves us forward.

Our Mission

James River Day School cultivates intellectual curiosity

and strength of character in a joyful community.

5th Grade group Fiesta Day

HEADLINES

Being a Crew at JRDS (October 22, 2026)

In our opening meetings, I shared an article with our faculty, “The Necessity of Being a Crew.” I am proud of the work our faculty and staff have done this year to live our mission daily as a crew.

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Soccer Headline 10.15

HEADLINES

Spirit Week (October 15,2026)

This is a joyful time for the community to celebrate what it means to be a James River Cardinal and to honor the final days of Hispanic Heritage Month.

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HEADLINES

Community Support and Service (October 8, 2026)

Our community supported our fourth graders in the Fourth Grade One Miler and participated in a community service project with their Cardinal Buddies.

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Book Fair display with student

HEADLINES

JRDS October Traditions (October 1, 2026)

The Book Fair has been a huge hit this year! October is a great month for JRDS traditions, kicking off with the Fourth Grade One Miler.

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Upcoming Events

Oct 28

Day of Giving

Oct 30

Halloween Parade & Carnival

Nov 4

Picture Retakes

Nov 5

Kindergarten Open House

Nov 13

Thankful Hearts Canned Food Drive

Nov 16

Thankful Hearts Canned Food Drive

Nov 17

Thankful Hearts Canned Food Drive

Nov 18

Thankful Hearts Canned Food Drive

Nov 19

Thankful Hearts Canned Food Drive

Nov 19

Thankful Hearts Feast

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About Us

8:1 Student Teacher Ratio
Spanish instruction: K through 8
100% of students have public-speaking experience
Over $350,000 in tuition assistance given each year
Art, music, & P.E. are part of the core curriculum
Community service & leadership opportunities at every grade level
60-70 minutes of recess each day in K-4