Discover JCDS

In your journey to find the best private school in Jacksonville, we are honored that you are considering Jacksonville Country Day School.

Our 65-year history of excellence makes JCDS the premier choice in elementary education in Northeast Florida. Our academic program, spacious facilities, character education, robust after-school enrichment, and a dedicated faculty are all well-known for their exceptional caliber.
Our teachers and staff at JCDS are experts in elementary education, focusing exclusively on young learners from Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. 

At JCDS, we lay the foundation for the future, equipping each student for lifelong learning, good character, and social responsibility.

We are deeply committed to nurturing every aspect of a child. Our faculty are driven to provide an environment where children develop their love of learning—enabling them to thrive academically, physically, and emotionally.

Through a purposeful partnership with our families, we cultivate confident graduates who are strong in character and academics, who can communicate effectively, lead by example, and demonstrate respect and compassion for others.
At JCDS, learning is an epic adventure. Our students experiment, innovate, and grow through every experience—all within a safe, nurturing environment. Childhood is the foundation of a lifetime—every moment matters.

Explore how our programs inspire creativity and confidence.
In JCDS’s early-learning program, children learn through play, exploration, and risk-taking in a multisensory environment. Moving, creating, collaborating, and learning from mistakes foster their social-emotional growth and spark the curiosity they need for a lifetime of learning.

Our teachers are adept at presenting developmentally appropriate lessons in the classroom and outdoors to encourage exploration and experimentation.

Discover how we nurture every child’s potential in early learning.
At JCDS, our caring educators surround students with love and support, fostering growth and success. Our research-driven instruction tailors engaging experiences to every learner’s needs, ensuring that all thrive.

With an average of 15 years in the field, teachers are masters at delivering robust educational opportunities for their students.

In a recent survey conducted by Independent School Management Consultants, our faculty was rated "world-class."

Discover how we inspire academic and personal excellence.
JCDS’s challenging curriculum empowers students to reach their full potential. Our character education, including the 7 Mindsets, virtues of the month, and service learning, fosters positive relationships. Spanish, physical education, and fine arts ensure well-rounded growth.

See our vibrant community in action—schedule a tour today.
At JCDS, learning continues beyond the classroom. With 92% of students joining our after-school enrichment, they explore fine arts, sports, problem-solving, and academics. Led by faculty with specialized knowledge as well as local experts, these programs extend our mission.

The after-school enrichment program at JCDS is the most comprehensive of any elementary school in Northeast Florida. Visit our Enrichment page to learn more.
 

Facts and Figures

List of 8 items.

  • 100%

    STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN SERVICE LEARNING
  • 19

    Acres of beautiful wooded land
  • 55%

    Diversity Rate
  • 92%

    Students in After-School Enrichment
  • 5

    Days a Week of Both PE and Recess
  • 15

    Average Years of Experience for Full-Time Teachers
  • 16k+

    Books in the library
  • 420+

    Happy Students at JCDS

School News

A Meaningful Partnership  
Service learning at the highest level

Our 5th graders returned from their visit to the North Florida School for Special Education (NFSSE) with new friendships, big smiles, and lessons that will last a lifetime. Through our reverse-inclusion partnership, JCDS students engage in activities with NFSSE peers who have special needs, fostering empathy, understanding, and meaningful connections in a supportive environment.
 
During the visit, the students painted colorful murals, planted flowers in the NFSSE garden, and laughed as they fed the school’s friendly animals. 
 
"It was great," said 5th grader Evelyn F. "We learned that people may look, sound, or move different on the outside, but on the inside we are all the same."

The whole experience left a lasting impression. 
 
“They were the nicest kids ever,” said David S., who bonded with his energetic “buddy,” Jax. “By their expressions, it looked like they were having a lot of fun.” 
 
Dylan R. added, “They love to talk and have fun. It is fun to make new friends.”
 
Evan K. was thrilled to connect with his buddy, Stephen, over shared interests. “We both like art, basketball, and math,” he said. “I can’t wait to go back and spend time with him again.”
 
This partnership reflects JCDS’s commitment to fostering compassion and celebrating the unique gifts of every individual. Our 5th graders will visit NFSSE again later this year, and we can’t wait to hear more about these growing friendships.
 

Our Graduates

One hundred percent of 5th grade graduates from JCDS get their choice of local private middle schools.

Our Portrait of a Graduate captures the school’s core beliefs and how those are reflected in each of our students and graduates. We focus on the qualities that make our students uniquely prepared for middle school and beyond. It is this portrait that brings our mission to life and affirms the choice families make to send their children to Jacksonville Country Day School.

Visit Us

Jacksonville Country Day School is an independent and multicultural school dedicated to motivating and guiding students towards fully achieving their unique potential.