Arts in Education Week
At JCDS, it's every week!
National Arts in Education Week, observed this year September 13–19, celebrates arts learning in schools and communities and calls for broader, more equitable access to it. At JCDS, the arts are part of the weekly rhythm of school life.
Our students receive formal art and music instruction weekly from specialists who scaffold skills with real care—and real expertise.
Art Specialist Alli Flores, an accomplished artist herself, introduces students to the styles and techniques of artists past and present. Recently, fourth-graders are finished a story-quilt project in the spirit of Faith Ringgold. Each student recalled a moment from their own life and turned it into a finished piece—personal history, stitched in color.
Students who want more time in the studio can join Art Sharks, the after-school enrichment program.
Music education also begins in Pre-K 3. This week, Music Specialist Jessica Barker had the youngest Sharks keeping a steady beat on small drums. She then led a Peek-a-Boo scarf activity: students moved to the phrasing of a recorded song, then tried the same responses when she played the music without lyrics. It was a simple, joyful lesson in listening.
Music education also begins in Pre-K 3. This week, Music Specialist Jessica Barker had the youngest Sharks keeping a steady beat on small drums. She then led a Peek-a-Boo scarf activity: students moved to the phrasing of a recorded song, then tried the same responses when she played the music without lyrics. It was a simple, joyful lesson in listening.
With first grade, Ms. Barker folded in a little science. A video of a rock tossed into a pond showed ripples traveling outward. Sound, she explained, works the same way. She set a snare drum a few feet from a bass drum; when she struck the bass, the snare rattled. Invisible waves had done the work.
Then came the bowls: plastic wrap stretched tight, salt sprinkled on top. As students drummed, the salt danced. Ms. Barker asked what else might move it—something they could do with no tools.
“You could sing like opera!” suggested first-grader Josie K.
They did. Loudly. The salt shifted in waves, and the room was amazed.
Third through fifth-grade students who want to play an instrument—and an early start to their day—can join the award-winning JCDS Band. Rehearsal begins at 7:15 a.m.
Band Specialist Chrystal Staples takes the group from first notes to demanding concert repertoire. Winter and spring performances are not to be missed.
Sharks who dance have plenty of options: hip-hop, jazz, cheer, and the JCDS Dance Team. From Pre-K 3 (beginning in the spring) through fifth grade, students work with three experienced instructors who teach, rehearse, and grow the program year after year.
National Arts in Education Week celebrates the important role the arts play in child development, a role that is woven into every JCDS student’s experience.
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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