Student Life

After-School Enrichment

What is Enrichment?

The purpose of the Jacksonville Country Day School Enrichment program is to provide students with introductory exploration and continuing development of character, the arts, academics, and athletics for the enhancement of their JCDS education.
 
JCDS Enrichment programs provide engaging on-campus options that supplement and enhance a student’s experience in the classroom. Enrichment activities also provide a place for students to develop lasting friendships. Perhaps most importantly, enrichment activities are fun!

Questions About Enrichment

Do all JCDS students participate?
Approximately 93% of JCDS students participate in at least one activity over the course of the school year. Of those who participate, many are enrolled in multiple activities (the average is two). This allows students to experience a range of topics and discover their passions. It is up to each family to decide whether to participate and the number of activities that is best for their child.
  
When do activities occur?
Most activities are scheduled for once a week, allowing students to participate in more than one activity if they wish. The majority of activities begin immediately after school. Schedules for specific activities may vary annually. 
 
Who teaches the activities?
A majority of our enrichment options are led by JCDS faculty and staff who are able to share their own talents and passions outside of the academic day. While some activities are led by contractors or vendors, we thoughtfully select partnerships that reflect our mission. 

Do students get to showcase the skills they learn during enrichment activities?
Each enrichment activity has a different way to celebrate the skills their child has learned. From Chorus and Band concerts to Basketball games and end-of-season tournaments, dance recitals, and musical productions, we celebrate and honor the time and effort students spend developing techniques and camaraderie during each activity.  
 
What types of activities are available for my child?
There are three categories of enrichment activities - academics, active offerings, and fine arts - that take place before or after school.

If my child is absent from school, can they still participate?
No, students must be present at school to participate in enrichment classes, athletic events, or events associated with enrichment activities.

JCDS reserves the right to change enrichment options at any time.


Specific Activities

List of 20 items.

  • Art Sharks

    Art Sharks allows students to further explore artistic passions through a variety of topics and mediums. Projects may include ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, multi-media works, and collaborative art. Small class sizes offer opportunities for projects determined by student interest.
  • Band

    JCDS Band students develop musical techniques and learn to collaborate at both the beginning and advanced levels. The JCDS Band is composed of musicians learning brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. The students explore various composers and styles, and develop confidence as they perform on and off campus throughout the school year.
  • Basketball

    JCDS Basketball is a developmental program for athletes in the 3rd through 6th grades. Players will develop basic basketball skills including shooting, dribbling, passing, rebounding, and positioning on the court. Students will participate in regular practices and games, establishing good sportsmanship and building aerobic fitness. Teams will compete against other local independent schools throughout the season.
  • Chess

    JCDS is proud to partner with the Knight School to offer students the opportunity to explore the classic game of chess. Lessons will include strategy, game play, and other skills. Students will exercise their critical thinking skills through a variety of chess based games and activities.
  • Chorus

    The JCDS Chorus provides an opportunity for students to develop basic vocal performance skills as part of an ensemble. Students will develop an appreciation for a variety of musical styles and gain confidence through performance opportunities.
  • Dance

    The JCDS Dance program allows students to study a variety of movement disciplines. Students develop fine motor skills, balance, and coordination, and build relationships with their peers. Topics covering, ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, and contemporary. JCDS dancers have multiple opportunities to perform in showcases and recitals throughout the year. JCDS is also proud to offer an award winning dance team!
  • Extended Care

    Jacksonville Country Day School provides after school Extended Care for all students, including those in the Early Learning program. As an extension of the regular school day, our program seeks to provide care that will compliment and support the mission of JCDS. The Extended Care program includes daily homework time, physical and outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and a nutritious snack.
  • Flag Football

    JCDS Flag Football is a developmental program for athletes in 3rd through 6th grades. Players will develop basic flag football skills including offensive and defensive formations and plays, route running and receiving, and flag pulling. Students will participate in regular practices and games, establishing good sportsmanship and building aerobic fitness. Teams will compete against other local independent schools throughout the season.
  • Gymnastics

    JCDS is excited to partner with TNT Gymnastics for our Gmnastics offerings. Gymnastics focuses on building self-esteem, team work, and creating a fun environment for kids to learn about fitness. Their Mobile Movements program gives students the opportunity to participate in gymnastics without leaving campus. Their mission is to engage with each child individually, create a safe, fun, and exciting atmosphere, and help each child reach his/her full potential.
  • Junior Scientist

    Junior Scientists offers students an opportunity to explore, learn, and create through science-based activities. These interactive and hands-on projects are designed to develop our student’s love for discovery and science.
  • Lego League

    In Lego League, students explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) concepts and basic robotics. Students will research real-world engineering and environmental problems and work in teams to design, build, and program robotic solutions. Through this fun process, students will learn to collaborate, explain their ideas, and test solutions through trial and error.
  • Music Lessons

    JCDS is happy to partner with Staples Music Studio and First Coast School of Music to offer private lessons for students interested in developing musical skills. Lessons are offered for students exploring piano, guitar, flute, clarinet, trumpet, saxophone, trombone, low brass, and percussion instruments. Individualized instruction allows a focused environment to develop technical skills and confidence.
  • Sharks on the Run

    Come join the JCDS Sharks on the Run group for a fun, active and engaging running club with your friends. Students will work on proper preparation, stretching, stride and running technique, as well as pacing and gross motor skills.
  • Soccer Team

    JCDS Soccer is a developmental program for athletes in 3rd through 6th grades. Players will develop basic soccer skills including ball handling, shooting, and passing to prepare for match play. Students will participate in regular practices and games, establishing good sportsmanship and building aerobic fitness. Teams will compete against other local independent schools throughout the season.
  • Spanish Culture and Language

    Come develop and explore a new language, and learn about Spanish culture all while right here in a JCDS classroom. Students will explore greetings, colors, numbers, songs, play games and much more! Learning Spanish at an early age is a great way to explore the diversity of other cultures.
  • Sports Academy

    JCDS is proud to partner with First Athletes Sports Training (F.A.S.T.), to bring a multi-sport academy. The JCDS Sports Academy is a great way for students to explore multiple active options in a non-competitive setting. Each semester will concentrate on a number of topics.
  • Study Sharks

    Learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings! Study Sharks provides a dedicated space where students can focus on completing homework, receive one on one and group assistance, and engage in independent learning. This class promotes effective time management, organization, and empowerment in a supportive atmosphere.
  • Theatre Arts

    JCDS is proud to offer multiple classes in Theatre Arts! Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of theatre, as well as explore topics like public speaking, singing, creating characters, team building, prop construction, and costume design. Classes include, Acting & improv, Musical Theatre, and Theatre Design. Our Musical Theatre class includes a large spring musical. 
  • Volleyball Team

    JCDS Volleyball is a developmental program for athletes in third through sixth grades. Players will develop basic volleyball skills including serving, setting, hitting, and passing. Students will participate in regular practices, establishing good sportsmanship through regular drills and conditioning. Teams will compete against other local independent schools throughout the season and in a culminating tournament.
  • Yoga

    Yoga is a relaxing option for students after school. This class is designed to increase flexibility, coordination, strength, and muscle control. Students will learn individual and partner yoga poses, practice mindfulness exercises, and develop positive self-esteem.