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 Day School student bringing in donated canned goods.

HEADLINES

Gathering with Purpose (November 20, 2025)

Each year, Thankful Hearts warms something in our hearts. We gather food to help others, and we gather together to share a Thanksgiving meal. In the 20+ years that James River Day School has been doing this, it has become a favorite tradition. Click to read more.

eighth grader working with a kindergartener on reading

HEADLINES

Gathering with Gratitude (November 13, 2025)

Head of School Jenn Lindsay reflects on why Thanksgiving is such a special time at James River Day School.

Student coauthors a book with her mom

HEADLINES

Walk with Us (November 6, 2025)

James River Day School is fortunate to have such a caring and giving community. We are all committed to honoring childhood in what we do each day. This shared set of values allows us to use even a safety drill as a learning opportunity.

JRDS 1st graders playing dress up with playground buckets

HEADLINES

Being on the Cusp of November (October 30, 2025)

Learn about the Day of Giving preliminary results, and remember, as the weather changes, to dress students in layers.

Upcoming Events

Dec 4

MS Winter Concert

Time: 7 PM – 9 PM

Dec 5

Hanging of the Greens

Dec 11

4th-Grade Music Program

Time: 6 PM – 7 PM

Dec 16

8th-Grade Exams

Dec 17

8th-Grade Exams

Dec 18

8th-Grade Exams

Dec 19

Staggered Early Dismissal - Winter Holiday Break Begins

Dec 22

Holiday Break

Dec 23

Holiday Break

Dec 24

Holiday Break

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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