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.

James River 8th graders raising the flags

HEADLINES

When Things Happen (September 11, 2025)

“The true meaning of being alive is not just to feel happy, but to experience the full range of human emotions.” -Edward Deci

September faculty meeting at James River Day School

HEADLINES

Values Bind a Community

September 4, 2025

This week, I have observed our teachers and students falling into the familiar routines of school. I have witnessed and participated in hands-on lessons for grammar, math, spelling, and social studies. I enjoyed all of the lessons, but I was enthralled with the first-grade lesson on community, where students learned about the different aspects of community and then designed their own. As a history teacher, ...

first graders renew friendships during the first week of school at James River Day School

HEADLINES

Necessary Grace

August 28, 2025

James River Day School teachers discussed their summer reading.

HEADLINES

August 21, 2025 - Getting into the Swing of Things

“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” -- Roald Dahl

Upcoming Events

Sep 18

Back-to-School Night

Time: 6:30 PM – 8 PM

Sep 26

5th-Grade Parent Lunch

Time: 12 PM – 1 PM

Location: Taylor Media Center, James River Day School

Sep 29

Book Fair

Sep 30

Book Fair

Oct 1

Book Fair

Oct 2

Book Fair

Oct 2

Book Fair Family Night

Time: 5 PM – 7 PM

Oct 3

4th-Grade One Miler (weather permitting)

Location: Athletic Field

Oct 3

Book Fair

Oct 10

Professional Day - No Classes

Show All Events

About Us

7:1 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