Welcome, New Parents!
The Parent Ambassador Committee at Jacksonville Country Day School extends a warm welcome to you and your family. We are very excited that you have chosen the exceptional learning environment here at JCDS.
Parent Ambassadors are a group of dedicated parents who are interested in helping all parents at JCDS feel welcomed and supported. We are the bridge between education and parents. Our committee members not only serve new parents as liaisons to inform and assist families as they transition into our school, we also work with existing families to ensure a continued strong connection to the JCDS community.
If you have any questions or needs that are not addressed in the FAQs below, please contact Judy Witte, Admissions Coordinator, at jwitte@jcds.com. We will be happy to assist you! We look forward to meeting you at the spring and fall New Parents Events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click the following link for a brochure with frequently asked questions for new families.
What are the car window cards and decals?
All vehicles pickup up students must have a static cling decal displayed in the lower corner of the front passenger side windshield. These are available from the Main Office if you need additional decals.
When you are picking up your child, you must also have a colored window name card with your child's name. Please use a black marking pen to print first and last name in large letters on the card. Cards are color-coded by grade. These will be available in your child’s classroom on orientation/book day. Cards are to be displayed in the front passenger side window during dismissal. They enable staff to load cars quickly and reduce waiting time. Additional cards are available in the Main Office.
What if I have children in different grades?
The older child will wait with the younger child at the area you choose, front circle or 4th grade wing. We suggest using the front circle if any of the children are younger than 4th grade.
What are the procedures for picking my child up early?
If you need to pick your child up early, you must send a written note with your child to notify the school ahead of time. At the designated pick-up time your child will be brought to the Main Office. You must have identification with you to sign out your child.
Are there procedures for visitors/parents on campus?
Yes, the school has developed specific procedures to ensure the safety and security of the students. The Parent Hand- book outlines these procedures. Basic procedures require everyone entering the campus to sign in at the Main Office and obtain the appropriate badge for your visit to campus. The badge must be visible at all times and returned to the office when you sign out. Parents/visitors are never allowed to go directly to classrooms.
What after-school activities are available and how do I register my child?
JCDS offers dance (ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop and cheer leading,) music lessons, piano, violin, band, chess club, Art After School, cooking classes, Playball, tennis, and more. You will receive a letter regarding offerings and the designated time and place to register. Registration takes place on orientation/book day.
Is Extended Care available? What are the hours of operation and how do I enroll my child?
Enrollment information was included in your contract packet. If you did not receive a registration form, they are available in the Main Office. Registration takes place on book/orientation day, in the library. Extended Care is available before and after school. Early Care 7:15 AM-8:00 AM. Regular Extended Care 1:30-6:00 PM Occasional Extended Care is available with prior notice.
What is the purpose of Presentation of Program?
The purpose of the Presentation of Program is to familiarize parents with the school, grade level programs and the teachers and assistants. It is an excellent opportunity to get first hand knowledge of your child’s classroom. The daily schedule, curriculum and classroom procedures are fully explained. We strongly encourage you to attend the program, scheduled by departments. Dates and times will be on the school calendar and the website.
Does JCDS have a listing of other families attending JCDS?
Yes, early in the school year every JCDS family receives a Family Directory that lists families, phone numbers and addresses. The directory also lists each class by grade, teacher, and student.
Have a question that is not answered here?
Email your question to Judy Witte, Admissions Coordinator, at jwitte@jcds.com.
Upcoming Events
We are having an initial meeting of the Parent Ambassadors Committee on Monday, September 20th in the Fine Arts Center conference room. All interested parents are encouraged to attend. Find out how you can help promote our school to prospective parents, as well as foster a positive parent community here at our school.
