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.

3 James River Day School students at VBODA District Band tryouts

HEADLINES

Proud of James River (Jan. 15, 2026)

Our community has come through again, and our students continue to show us how to be brave and try new things. Click to read more.

James River lower school student works out a fabulous pattern.

HEADLINES

Getting Back into a Routine (January 8, 2026)

A new year brings us back to campus, hopeful for a wonderful spring. Make sure you're getting rest during this transition. We are also looking ahead to the 2026-2027 school year and want to share that calendar with you. Read on by clicking the link.

Happy Holidays from James River Day School's faculty and staff

HEADLINES

Wishing You All a Happy Winter Break! (December 18, 2025)

We hope everyone will enjoy time with their families and friends over the break. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year. Click to see more.

Middle School Band members rehearse for the concert.

HEADLINES

The Power of Music (December 4, 2025)

Music education isn't an "add-on." It is a vital part of our curriculum at every level. Click the title above to read about our middle school winter concert.

Upcoming Events

Jan 27

LIBRARY- Admissions Open House

Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: Taylor Media Center, James River Day School

Jan 28

Winter Conferences - No Classes

Feb 7

JRO Auditions

Feb 13

Presidents Day Weekend - NO School

Feb 16

Presidents Day Weekend - NO School

Feb 20

Trimester 2 Ends

Feb 26

Hall of States

Time: 6 PM – 7 PM

Mar 6

Grandparents & Friends Day

Mar 6

All-School Dismissal

Time: 11:30 AM – 11:45 AM

Mar 9

Spring 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