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.

1st grade student book

HEADLINES

Cardinal Character & Academic Excellence (September 3, 2026)

Our eighth graders are challenged in their biggest role to set the example of what it means to live into our Cardinal Character. In addition to character, JRDS is strongly committed to academic excellence, including reading.

Click the title to read more.

group of three students photo

HEADLINES

Kicking Off A New School Year (August 27, 2026)

From our youngest Cardinals in kindergarten to our oldest in 8th grade, this year has started with joy, positive energy, and deep curiosity for what the year will bring.

Click on the title to read more.

Supply List Graphic

HEADLINES

Summer Updates

Read more for our summer updates, including supply lists and summer reading plans.

Enjoy Your Summer! Banner

HEADLINES

Happy Summer!

We had our final farewell for our eighth graders at graduation, which is always a bittersweet moment. We are so proud of our eighth graders and look forward to hearing of their future successes in high school and beyond!

Upcoming Events

Sep 7

Labor Day - NO School

Sep 11

Fall Family Picnic

Sep 14

Picture Day

Sep 23

Fall Conferences - No Classes

Sep 28

Book Fair

Sep 29

Book Fair

Sep 30

Book Fair

Oct 1

Book Fair

Oct 1

Book Fair Family Night

Oct 2

Book Fair

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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