Our Mission James River Day School cultivates intellectual curiosity and strength of character in a joyful community. For over 50 years, James River has provided its students with amazing academic and athletic opportunities while recognizing the need to honor the sanctity of childhood. Our mission statement reflects the purpose of James River Day School, which is to serve students during their critical years of development while on campus and beyond. It speaks to the joy of childhood, a child's natural curiosity about the world, and the vital work we do to develop character in our students. The Board of Trustees approved the mission statement above on March 13, 2024. While this mission is authentic to our school community, we recognize the school's history and previous mission statements are inherent in the values of the school, and we have adapted them into our core beliefs: We understand and cherish childhood.
We commit to the whole child and foster academic excellence.
We care about developing strength of character and meaningful relationships.
We value a diverse and inclusive community. We recognize every child can make a positive impact on their community.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked VA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 249 students
- Yearly Tuition: $15,250
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
James River Day School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1971
First Day of School
Sun. Aug 31, 2025
Campus Size
12
Student Body
Total Students
249 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
8%
State avg.: 30%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
37 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
51%
Average Class Size
14 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$15,250
Tuition Notes
Lower School- 15250
Middle School- 15825
% on Financial Aid
28%
Admissions Director
W. Matthew Farley
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
School Notes
- School Mascot: Northern Cardinal
- Please visit our website for more information (www.jrds.school.org) or contact our Admissions office at (434) 384-7385.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does James River Day School cost?
James River Day School's tuition is approximately $15,250 for private students.
What schools are James River Day School often compared to?
James River Day School is often viewed alongside schools like Blue Ridge Montessori School by visitors of our site.
What sports does James River Day School offer?
James River Day School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Lacrosse, Soccer and Volleyball.
What is James River Day School's ranking?
James River Day School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for James River Day School?
The application deadline for James River Day School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Calendar
View the James River Day School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
First Day of School (Upcoming Events)
August 20, 2025 (Wednesday)
Staggered Early Dismissal - Thanksgiving Break Begins (Upcoming Events)
November 21, 2025 (Friday)
Thanksgiving Break (Upcoming Events)
November 24, 2025 (Monday)
Thanksgiving Break (Upcoming Events)
November 25, 2025 (Tuesday)
Thanksgiving Break (Upcoming Events)
November 26, 2025 (Wednesday)
School Reviews
5 2/7/2025
I have both my kids at JRDS (one in elementary school and one in middle school), and the school has genuinely helped my kids to reach their full academic potential. The JRDS community is diverse and very inclusive, and an emphasis on a kid's overall growth is cherished in this school. We could not be happier!
5 9/23/2022
My daughter is a student at James River and we are impressed!!! Best school!
5 11/16/2015
The academic program is very strong. The teachers are excellent, creating a challenging and supportive environment where children love learning. Small class sizes. Foreign language (Spanish or French) begins in Kindergarten. Music, art and PE are taught in every grade. Sports begin in 5th grade. No SOLs. The academics are the best in town, but more importantly the students are happy, caring, and kind.
Endorse James River Day School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
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