Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Elementary Education in Jacksonville, FL
Riverside Presbyterian Day School has been dedicated to educating the mind, nurturing the spirit, and fostering the development of the whole child since 1948. Our dynamic educational program is designed to build knowledgeable, well-rounded, critical thinkers who respect diversity and are prepared for life in a global community. We employ an integrated, interactive approach where instruction focuses on discovery and reflection, cultivating intellect and developing skills required for lifelong learning and citizenship. Our students thrive through meaningful, engaging lessons that challenge them to question, explore, analyze, and present their knowledge.We believe education should be memorable, rewarding, and guide children toward their dreams. Our faculty creates joyful, playful, and memorable learning experiences for PreK 3 through 6th grade students. We emphasize academic excellence while remaining sensitive to the whole child's development. Our teaching community understands that quality education comes from an integrated approach combining academic rigor with spiritual formation and servant leadership. We prepare students for secondary schools with self-confidence, strong leadership skills, and a comprehensive academic foundation.
Services
Early Learning Programs
Elementary Education
6th Grade Preparation
STEAM Education
Spiritual Formation
Competitive Sports
Performing Arts
After-School Programs
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- Established in 1948 as Jacksonville's oldest independent school
- Holistic approach combining academic excellence with spiritual formation
- Experienced faculty dedicated to whole-child development
- Specialized programs in STEAM, performing arts, and servant leadership
- Strong community connections through service learning initiatives
Services
Early Learning Programs
Our PreK 3 and PreK 4 programs create joyful, playful learning experiences that introduce children to school through curriculum covering literacy foundations, early numeracy, science exploration, and STEAM activities. Faculty focus on social-emotional development while building academic readiness skills through hands-on learning and structured play.
Elementary Education
Kindergarten through 5th grade program emphasizes academic growth through Science of Reading instruction, Singapore Math, inquiry-based science, and global competency development. Daily STEAM classes and specialized arts programs cultivate creativity while maintaining rigorous academic standards aligned with future educational success.
6th Grade Experience
Comprehensive 6th grade program prepares students for secondary education through advanced academic instruction, leadership development opportunities, and service learning projects. Focus on building self-confidence, critical thinking skills, and academic foundation for continued success in future educational endeavors.
Spiritual Formation
Daily Care & Connect gatherings and bi-monthly Rise and Shine events nurture spiritual growth while teaching biblical principles of compassion, service, and personal responsibility. Students learn they are valued individuals called to care for self, others, and the world around them.
Competitive Sports
Participation in North Florida Independent Schools Athletic Conference offers 5th-6th graders opportunities in basketball, volleyball, and flag football. Programs emphasize teamwork, sportsmanship, and skill development while providing competitive experiences against other independent schools in Northeast Florida.
People
Ben Ketchum
Head of School
Ben Ketchum leads Riverside Presbyterian Day School with a commitment to holistic education. With extensive experience in educational leadership, he emphasizes academic excellence combined with character development and spiritual growth for all students.
Tavia Mullen
Director of Admissions
Tavia Mullen oversees admissions and community engagement at Riverside. With deep institutional knowledge, she guides families through the enrollment process while maintaining strong connections with current and prospective school families.
Questions
What grades does Riverside Presbyterian Day School serve?
We serve students from PreK 3 through 6th grade, providing a comprehensive educational experience for early childhood through middle school preparation.
What makes Riverside's educational approach unique?
Our program combines academic excellence with spiritual formation and servant leadership development, creating a holistic educational experience focused on nurturing the whole child.
Are there extracurricular activities available?
Yes, we offer competitive sports, performing arts, STEAM education, after-school programs, and community service opportunities for students at all grade levels.
What is the admissions process like?
Our admissions process includes campus tours, parent meetings, and application submission. We encourage families to schedule visits and explore our programs through our online admissions portal.
Does the school have a spiritual component?
Yes, we incorporate daily spiritual formation activities including chapel services, Bible study, and character development programs aligned with our Christian values.
What sets Riverside apart from other elementary schools?
We combine rigorous academics with character development, spiritual growth, and service learning in a nurturing environment that celebrates childhood and prepares students for future success.
