The JCDS Timeline

  • 1960

    Southside Day School is founded at Swain Memorial Methodist Church in San Marco. Eighty students are enrolled.

  • 1964

    The school moves to current location.

  • 1967

    Kindergarten is added.

  • 1969

    SDS becomes the first school in Duval County to be accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

  • 1971

    The school changes name to Southside Country Day School.

  • 1975

    Southside Country Day School changes name to Jacksonville Country Day School.

  • 1982

    Three hundred and fifty-three students at Jacksonville Country Day School.

  • 1989

    JCDS limits grades to pre-kindergarten through sixth grade.

  • 1992

    JJ's (the JCDS jump rope team) perform at Disney World.

  • 1996

    Students begin wearing uniforms.

  • 1999

    Jacksonville Country Day School selected as a finalist for the "National School of Character".

  • 2000

    Jane Goodall visits JCDS.

  • 2003

    Brain based teaching and learning infuse curriculum.

  • 2007

    Marcus Printup, famed jazz soloist, visits JCDS.

  • 2010

    50th Anniversary of Jacksonville Country Day School.

  • Our Potential Realized

    Established in 1960 by Jacksonville families, Jacksonville Country Day School is excited to be celebrating our 50th anniversary. The school has grown from 80 students to 483 students from 3 years old to sixth graders. Over the years, JCDS has grown to be a leader in early childhood education and has been recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Florida Council of Independent Schools and most recently the Profile Series. JCDS continues to integrate character education and technology into stimulating, challenging curriculum designed to meet the needs of each individual student. We invite you to join us in celebrating 50 successful years of educating Jacksonville's children. Learn more about our legacy of learning and become part of our next 50 years.

  • 50th Anniversary Events

    JCDS has planned several celebrations throughout their 50th year. Parent and students check the website and Thursday Reminder for event details.

    50th Anniversary Teen Alumni Event
    Friday, January 28, 2011
    JCDS most recent graduates are invited back to campus for the evening.

    50th Anniversary Tribute to Fine Arts
    Thursday, April 14, 2011
    All are invited to join the JCDS family after school for a presentation of a specially commissioned anniversary chorale piece.

    Evening at the Oscars
    Saturday, April 16, 2011
    Parents, alumni and parents of alumni are invited to help us culminate a year of celebration with a gala honoring the 50th anniversary of JCDS.

  • JCDS Founders

    • Mrs. Phyllis Fleming
    • Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hirshberg
    • Ms. Margaret Lovejoy
    • Mrs. Margaret Ludwig
    • Mrs. Norma Lumpkins
    • Mr. and Mrs. Lacy Mahon
    • Mr. and Mrs. William Massey
    • Mrs. Mildred Morgan
    • Dr. and Mrs. Dudley Reep
    • Mr. and Mrs. Bryant B. Skinner, Sr.
    • Dr. and Mrs. Richard G. Skinner, Jr.

  • 50th Anniversary Committee

    • Chairs: Tammy Shumer and Julie McQuiddy
    • Promotions: Yogita Badarinath and Carmina Aldana
    • Memorabilia : Joyce Wong and Tracy Ralys
    • Alumni: Kristen Seay
    • Fine Arts Reception and Founders: Rebecca Schwam
    • Teen Alumni: Ruba Farah and Nikki Batchelor
    • An Evening at the Oscars (gala celebration): Cindy Skigen and Lisa Gielincki
    • Alumni Pavers: Amy Martin