About
Head of School Message
From the Desk of Christopher Johnson
Dear JCDS Community,
As the Head of Jacksonville Country Day School, I am continually inspired by the remarkable potential that lies within each of our students. The elementary years are more than just a phase in education; they are the crucial foundation upon which all future accomplishments are built. Like a tree that relies on deep and strong roots to grow tall and weather storms, an excellent early education ensures our children are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that life will later present.
Cultivating curiosity and academic growth is at the heart of everything we do. We encourage our students to ask questions, explore new ideas, seek new perspectives, and embrace the joy of childhood, which naturally lends itself to intellectual exploration. This mindset of curiosity not only enhances their academic abilities but also fosters a lifelong love of learning that will drive them forward into the future.
Character development is equally important at JCDS. We strive to instill values like integrity, empathy, and resilience. These qualities shape our students into individuals who not only achieve personal success but also contribute positively to society. By building strong character, we provide them with the inner compass needed to navigate life's complexities with confidence and grace.
Service to the community is another cornerstone of our mission. We teach our students the importance of giving back and building a sense of responsibility and connection to the world around them. Through acts of kindness and community involvement, our children learn that they can make a meaningful difference, no matter their age.
In uniting these pillars of intellectual curiosity, character development, and social responsibility, we are constructing a robust foundation for our students. This bedrock will support them throughout their lives, enabling them to reach heights they may have once only imagined. Together, we are not just educating children—we are shaping the leaders, innovators, and compassionate citizens of tomorrow.
Let us continue to build this strong foundation, confident that the work we do today will empower our children to achieve extraordinary things tomorrow.
Jacksonville Country Day School continues to nurture potential, foster innovation, and create a community where every child thrives.
Warm regards,
Chris
About Mr. Johnson
Mr. Johnson comes to us with a wealth of diverse teaching and school leadership experience that spans three continents. A teacher at heart and a lifelong learner, Mr. Johnson has a passion for education that has allowed him to build a skill set that reflects the cutting edge of leadership and curriculum development. His deep respect for the important work of the faculty and staff on his team promotes an environment of collaboration, trust, and excellence.
Most recently, Mr. Johnson served as the Head of Upper School for Scheck Hillel Community School in Miami, Florida. His prior experience includes working as a K-8 Assistant Principal, Teacher Trainer, Curriculum Coordinator, and Classroom Instructor on three different continents.
Mr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English and Political Science from the University of Arizona, a Postgraduate Teacher Certification in Secondary Education from Pima Community College, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction from Plymouth State University, and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership from the University of Arizona. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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