About
Head of School Message
From the Desk of Christopher Johnson
Dear JCDS Families and Friends,
As we approach the vibrant days of summer and prepare to celebrate our milestone 65th anniversary, I am filled with gratitude and excitement. Each year brings remarkable growth, resilience, and transformation to our students, faculty, and wider community, strengthening Jacksonville Country Day School's legacy as the leader in elementary education.
This past year has been especially meaningful, highlighted by the launch of our comprehensive strategic planning process and master planning initiative. These pivotal projects ensure that JCDS continues to evolve thoughtfully, staying true to our mission: preparing students for a healthy and productive lifetime marked by intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility. Together, these processes will guide our continued growth, shaping our school's future to match our shared aspirations.
As we celebrate 65 years of excellence, we also celebrate our deep connection to the Jacksonville community. JCDS stands proudly as a place that not only educates but also inspires, shaping young learners who confidently engage with their communities and the world beyond.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we look forward to another extraordinary year ahead.
Warm regards,
Chris Johnson
Head of School
Head of School
About Mr. Johnson
Mr. Johnson brings a wealth of diverse teaching and school leadership experience to Jacksonville Country Day School, with a career that has spanned three continents. A lifelong educator and learner, he is deeply committed to fostering a collaborative school culture where faculty and staff feel supported, valued, and empowered to excel.
At JCDS, Mr. Johnson is focused on nurturing a warm, inclusive school community and an educational environment where students are both challenged and encouraged. Under his leadership, the school continues to build on its strong legacy while embracing thoughtful innovation in teaching and learning. His approach emphasizes respect, relationships, and a shared commitment to the success of every child.
His background includes serving as Head of Upper School at Scheck Hillel Community School in Miami, as well as holding roles such as K-8 Assistant Principal, Teacher Trainer, Curriculum Coordinator, and Classroom Instructor in international and domestic settings. These experiences have shaped his global perspective and informed his innovative approach to leadership and curriculum development.
Mr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science from the University of Arizona, a Postgraduate Teacher Certification in Secondary Education from Pima Community College, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Plymouth State University, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Arizona. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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