Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal time to start is during the fall or winter months prior to the year you wish to enter.

Yes. Riverside offers need-based financial assistance to applicants for admission; however, the processes of filing for assistance and applying for admission are separate ones. This separation is intentional so that we can ensure that our admission process is need-blind and that a student’s need for financial assistance does not influence admission decisions. Parents can access the FAST online application specific for Riverside families provided in our Financial Assistance information.

Yes. We believe a student body that is rich in diversity of racial, ethnic, religious, economic and geographical backgrounds is a healthy and vibrant learning community for our children.

Yes. On Thursday mornings, the Riverside family gathers in the sanctuary of Riverside Presbyterian Church to celebrate God’s love through music, verse and lesson. This blend of faith within our academic community provides each student and family an exceptional and loving environment in which to grow and learn. Parents and grandparents are invited to join us for Chapel each Thursday at 8:20 a.m.

Yes. A tradition of service is at the core of the Riverside experience.
RPDS is committed to nurturing a sense that responsible citizens help others. For this reason we select and support other non-profit agencies needing volunteers, supplies and gifts during the school year.

Historically, the majority of RPDS graduates attend either Episcopal School of Jacksonville or The Bolles School. Recently, many other school choices have emerged to include St. Johns Country Day School, Hendricks Day School, regional Catholic schools or Duval County magnet schools. Graduates of the Class of 2017 matriculated to seven different middle schools.

Riverside's average class size is 16-20 students. The student – teacher ratio is 9:1.

PreK 3 and PreK 4: 8:00am to 12:00pm
PreK 3 and PreK 4 Lunch Bunch: 12:00 pm to 1:30pm
Kindergarten - 6th Grade: 8:00am to 3:00pm

Early morning supervision is available from 7:00am to 8:00am. Students may participate in our Riverside in the Afternoon Program until 6:00pm.

Riverside has a prescribed dress code with the belief that students perform best when dressed neatly and conservatively. The dress code applies to students in grades 1-6. Parents have the option to order RPDS school attire through Lands' End. PreK 3, PreK 4 and Kindergarten students should be dressed in neat and comfortable attire.