New Family Guide - 2026-2027

Welcome to EPISCOPAL SCHOOL of JACKSONVILLE

Important PHONE NUMBERS

Beaches Campus

904.246.2466

Beaches Campus Extended Day

904.631.0375

Beaches Campus Admission & Enrollment

904.246.2466, ext. 1237

Munnerlyn Campus

904.396.5751

Munnerlyn Campus Admission & Enrollment

904.396.7104

St. Mark’s Campus

904.388.2632

St. Mark’s Campus Extended Day

904.388.2632 ext. 1229

St. Mark’s Campus Admission & Enrollment

904.388.2632, ext. 1228

Business Office/Student Accounts (all campuses)

904.396.5751, ext. 1178

Campus Store (Munnerlyn Campus)

904.396.5751, ext. 1119

What to do and when

Visit the My ESJ portal in early June for information on summer learning, school supplies, a back-to-school checklist, upcoming events, and much more. You will also receive additional email communication about back-to-school events.

Key Dates

Scan the QR code below or visit esj.org/key dates to access important dates. If you have children on multiple campuses, please be sure to check both calendars as dates can be campus-specific.

HONOR SYSTEM

A MEMBER OF THE EPISCOPAL COMMUNITY WILL UPHOLD OUR HONOR SYSTEM AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT EVERY MEMBER HAS THE RIGHT TO LEARN AND GROW IN AN ENVIRONMENT THAT IS WELCOMING AND ACCEPTING. WE WILL STRIVE TO LIVE WITH HONOR AND OUR CHOICES WILL EMBODY KINDNESS, AWARENESS, INCLUSION, AND RESPECT FOR ALL.

The Honor Code states:

• A member of the Episcopal community will not lie.

• A member of the Episcopal community will not steal.

• A member of the Episcopal community will not cheat.

SCHOOL SEAL

The four

quadrants of

the school seal each have a picture that is unique to the school’s founding.

THE GOLD EAGLE in the upper left quadrant represents the eagle of Saint John and is the school mascot.

THE “C” within the keystone in the upper right quadrant represents Mary Packer Cummings, whose estate is part of Episcopal’s original campus.

THE LAMP of learning light is in the lower left quadrant. (Lamps of knowledge are also on pedestals in Parks and Lastinger Halls and were used during the buildings’ dedications.)

The lower right quadrant contains a picture of a PALM TREE, for Florida, and the St. Johns River.

SCHOOL COLORS & MASCOT

The school colors are maroon and gold. The school’s mascot, Talon, supports school spirit, and represents the eagle of Saint John.

SCHOOL History

Scan the QR code and learn about Episcopal’s deep roots.

SCHOOL Leadership

Connect ONLINE

FOR EAGLE EYES ONLY, MY ESJ IS OUR PASSWORD-PROTECTED PORTAL ON THE EPISCOPAL WEBSITE (ESJ.ORG/MYESJ) WHERE WE STORE AND COMMUNICATE INFORMATION INTENDED ONLY FOR EPISCOPAL PARENTS, STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF.

Here’s what you’ll find in your portal:

• New family to-do checklists

• Links to complete required forms in the Magnus Portal

• Student-Parent Handbook

• Summer learning information and assignments (June)

• Book and supply lists (June)

• Uniform information (June)

• Campus-specific tools and resources (June)

• Online Directories (June)

Episcopal’s online directories are located within My ESJ and include contact information for all students and their families, faculty, staff, and administration. Contact admission@esj.org with any questions you may have.

Please note: ESJ online directories are for school-use only and are not to be used for mail, email, or telephone solicitations.

EAGLE EYE view

Here’s what you’ll find in your portal once the school year begins:

LOWER SCHOOL

• Order lunches

• Register for after school activities

• Register for Extended Day programs

• Check out photos

• See report cards

• View directories and a digital calendar

MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOLS

• View student schedules by period

• See student progress

• See report cards

• Browse lunch menus

• View directories and a digital calendar

STAY Up to

EPISCOPAL INSIDER EMAIL

The Episcopal Insider email is sent weekly to current Episcopal parents. This email is the primary source for upcoming event information, important dates, reminders, and ways to get involved. It is very important families read the Insider each week to remain in the loop.

EPISCOPAL COMMUNITY E-NEWS

This weekly email is distributed to the greater Episcopal community (current and former families, friends of ESJ, etc.). It includes photos and highlights from all campuses, celebrates student accomplishments, notes upcoming events, and recognizes supporters of ESJ.

DEAN’S DETAILS (MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL)

The Dean’s Details provides Middle and Upper School students with information related to the coming week on the Munnerlyn Campus by division, including rotation and schedule information, student group information, special dress days, and grade-level assembly information. It is emailed to students and parents over the weekend, prior to the coming week.

THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL

The Magazine of Episcopal includes feature stories, recaps of campus activities, sports round-ups, and alumni news. You’ll receive one via mail in the summer and winter.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

In the event of a weather-related closing, delayed opening, or other emergency, Episcopal utilizes an automated rapid alert system to send text and email notifications to our community. In order to receive text updates, please ensure your cell phone number is included in your My ESJ Profile (to view and update your profile, go to My ESJ and select “Update My Profile”.)

ALL THINGS Social

OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM

esj.beachescampus episcopalschooljax esj.stmarkscampus episcopaleagles

OFFICIAL FACEBOOK

Beaches Campus - Episcopal School of Jacksonville

Munnerlyn Campus - Episcopal School of Jacksonville

St. Mark’s Campus - Episcopal School of Jacksonville

Beaches Campus

Knight Sports Campus

Munnerlyn Campus

St. Mark’s Campus

About the SCHEDULE

LOWER SCHOOL

Early Eagles (Early Learning Program - Grade 5): 7:15 a.m. - 7:50 a.m.

School Day (Early Learning Program - Pre-K 4): 8:05 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Afternoon Eagles (Early Learning Program - Pre-K 4): 12:00 p.m. - 3:10 p.m., or 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

School Day (K - 5): 8:05 a.m. - 3:10 p.m.

Afternoon Eagles (K - 5): 3:10 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

See Key Dates Calendars for Early Dismissal dates and times (reminders for these dates will also be included in the Insider).

MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL

Early Morning: Harden Hall and the Bryan Library open at 7:30 a.m. On late start days, the library will open when school starts. Breakfast is available at 7:30 a.m. at Harden Hall.

School Day: 8:05 a.m. - 3:25 p.m.

The Munnerlyn Campus has late starts and early dismissals throughout the year to allow for faculty professional development and collaboration. These dates and times will be published over the summer.

After School: Extracurricular activities, such as athletics or fine arts, generally happen after school starting at 3:40 p.m.; each has different ending times. Specific hours are provided to each team or group from the coach or instructor.

The Buck Student Center is open until 5:00 p.m. and the Bryan Library is open until 6:00 p.m. with adult supervision, except for Early Dismissal Days.

DROPOFF AND PICKUP AT EPISCOPAL

• Lower School carpool information will be covered at New Parent Orientation

• Middle & Upper School drop-off and pickup information will be covered during New Student Orientation

BUS INFORMATION

ESJ provides bus transportation for grades 6-12 from Nocatee, the beach (multiple stops), and from the St. Mark’s Campus. For more information, including fees and route details, visit esj.org/bus.

Information for the 2026-27 school year will be available in June.

FREQUENTLY ASKED Questions

What are the important back-to-school dates?

August 10 - St. Mark’s Campus: New Parent Orientation

August 11 - Beaches Campus: New Parent Orientation

Munnerlyn Campus: New Student Orientation

August 12 - St. Marks and Beaches Campuses: Meet Your Teacher

August 13 - All Campuses: First Day of School

When are student health forms due?

All student health data must be completed and submitted through Magnus Health System by August 1. Please schedule doctor appointments early to ensure forms are complete prior to this date. Parents can access Magnus via My ESJ.

Are there summer learning requirements for students?

Summer learning is recommended for rising ELP 1 - second grade and required for students in grades three through 12. Grade-specific lists will be shared via My ESJ in June. Simply login and select the grade(s) pertaining to your child(ren).

For Middle and Upper School students, summer reading books are available at the Campus Store, located on the Munnerlyn Campus, or from online retailers.

When will student schedules and advisory/homeroom assignments be available?

Lower School: Class placements are made available in August in My ESJ. You will receive an email when they are posted.

Middle & Upper School: In early June, a list of your student’s courses will be available in My ESJ. In early August, your student’s final schedule which includes courses, periods, and teachers along with advisory/homeroom assignments will be posted in My ESJ. You will receive an email once these are available.

Does my child need school supplies?

Early Learning Program and Pre-K supply lists are available in My ESJ.

Kindergarten - fifth grade school supplies are included in tuition.

Textbooks and supplies for Middle and Upper School students are available from the Campus Store. An email about ordering textbooks and supplies from the Campus Store will be sent in June.

Complete Middle School supply lists are posted in My ESJ and for your convenience, Middle School supply kits can be purchased through the Campus Store.

Upper School teachers will communicate supply needs the first week of school.

What is the student dress code?

Dress code policies for each academic division are outlined in the Student-Parent Handbook found on My ESJ.

What options are there to participate in athletics?

Lower School students participate in competitive athletics beginning in the third grade as part of the North Florida Independent School Athletic Conference (NFISAC).

Middle and Upper School students are able to participate in any of the 19 sports offered on the Munnerlyn Campus. Middle School sports are no-cut while Upper School sports offer at least one no-cut sport each season. Prior to participating on a team, students must submit the required FHSAA forms through Magnus. Check the Episcopal Insider and the Dean’s Details (weekly student email on weekends) for dates and times for team tryout information.

How does my student get involved in groups and activities on the Munnerlyn?

The Munnerlyn Campus offers more than 100 student groups. Groups are activity, interest, or community service based and allow Middle and Upper School students to develop personally while building relationships with others. Students should attend the student groups fair in the fall to find a good fit for their personal needs and interests.

How do I register my Lower School child for after school activities?

Signups for after-school activities are offered three times a school year via email and in the Episcopal Insider email via a link to My ESJ.

Show your EAGLE PRIDE

Get your Episcopal spirit wear, school supplies, and gift items at the Campus Store located on the Munnerlyn Campus in the Buck Student Center. It’s a popular place for Middle and Upper School students to buy snacks, too! ESJ students may charge items. Please be sure to communicate any financial limits or budgets to your child. The Campus Store makes frequent visits to Lower School special events as well.

Campus Store Hours

SCHOOL YEAR

Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

UNIFORMS

Students in Pre-K 3 - Grade 12 are required to wear an ESJ uniform available through Land’s End. For additional information about dress code policies and how to purchase uniforms, visit esj.org/campus-store.

PE UNIFORMS (MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL)

PE uniforms are purchased from the Campus Store. Two or three uniforms per child are recommended.

COMMUNITY Connection

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Arts

Lower School students participate in performances, dance, studio art, and music throughout the year. Information will be shared regarding grade level performances or presentations in Chapel. All Middle and Upper School students have the opportunity to participate in a multitude of theater, musical theater, technical theatre, dance, choral, and instrumental performances throughout the year. Visual arts includes photography, studio art, and ceramics openings and shows. Performance and gallery opening information is available in the Insider with ticket information. Students participate by enrolling in these classes or participating in after school productions, behind the scenes, or on the stage.

ESJ students receive entry to one performance of each production at no charge with their student ID. Lower School students verbally confirm their status at the door to receive entry at no cost.

COMMUNITY Connection

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Athletics

Lower School students are able to compete inter-scholastically in multiple sports in grades 3 - 5. Clinics led by Varsity coaches and players, team sport participation as part of after school activities, and opportunities to compete on the Munnerlyn Campus are all part of the athletic experience at the Lower School level.

Middle and Upper School students have the opportunity to play on multiple levels and teams throughout the school year. More than 60 teams across 19 sports are fielded each year. Students in Middle School benefit from our no-cut policy, which ensures all experience the benefits of being part of a team. JV and Varsity sports include tryouts, but there is at least one no-cut sport offered each season. Varsity teams travel throughout the state to compete in district, regional, and state competitions.

Upper School students may participate in more than 100 clubs and groups on the Munnerlyn Campus.

Opportunities abound to fulfill the 100 required hours of service before Commencement.

COMMUNITY Connection

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Community

Episcopal’s strength as a community is unmatched. As part of our Episcopal identity and the vision of our Founders to be “leaders and doers of good,” the school provides multiple opportunities for students and parents to serve and become involved. Service opportunities abound, from drives for specific items to participation in community events. ESJ uses a customized smartphone app called HelperHelper which grades 9-12 use to track their hours and to view and commit to volunteer opportunities. Ninth grade students will learn the ins and outs of HelperHelper during Celebrating Community Day and through their advisory. New students in grades 10-12 will also receive HelperHelper instruction through New Student Orientation and in advisory.

Parent INVOLVEMENT

Parent Involvement

A GREAT WAY TO GET INVOLVED AND MEET OTHER PARENTS. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Parents’ Association (PA) - The Parents’ Association supports faculty, staff, and students on campus, contributing to the extras that really make the Episcopal experience unique.

Boosters (Munnerlyn Campus only) - The core mission of the Athletic Boosters is to recognize and celebrate the athletic experiences and achievements of Episcopal students while promoting parent involvement in support of the entire athletic program and its coaches.

Fine Arts Nurturing Students (FANS) (Munnerlyn Campus only) - FANS serves to enhance the Fine Arts experience for every Episcopal student and the entire community. FANS provides essential support to the Fine Arts’ students and faculty, and encourages all to attend performances and visual art shows.

Dads’ Club - The Dads’ Club is a parent support organization focused on fellowship, campus support opportunities, and fun.

Chapels - At our Lower Schools, many parents attend weekly morning Chapel services and enjoy this special time with their children. Parents of Middle School and Upper School students will be notified if their child has a role in an upcoming Chapel so they may attend.

Special Events - From fall festival events to end of year class parties, special gatherings, and fundraising events, parents have multiple opportunities to volunteer during the week and on weekends. Volunteer opportunities will be shared in the Insider email.

Membership in all parent organizations is included in tuition. There is no extra cost to participate.

PARENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL CAMPUSES ARE COMMUNICATED IN THE Episcopal Insider weekly email.

CULTURE OF Philanthropy

Philanthropy

A CULTURE OF PHILANTHROPY AND INVOLVEMENT

Episcopal’s long standing culture of philanthropy and volunteerism has created a vibrant school deeply rooted in community. From its inception, the school has thrived on the support of its dedicated families, resulting in a legacy that fosters and honors our collaborative spirit. Generosity has defined Episcopal’s history, with parents being integral partners in the pursuit of educational excellence.

The Episcopal Fund – The school’s annual fund is the foundation of philanthropy at Episcopal. It is the school’s largest fundraiser each year, and it provides the greatest flexibility to deliver a firstrate education without substantial tuition increases. Tax deductible gifts to The Episcopal Fund go directly into the operating budget, where they are used in the current year.

Capital Campaigns – Capital campaigns raise philanthropic support for new construction, renovation of facilities, or for the endowment. These longer-term projects are large in scale and involve our entire community, including former parents, grandparents, and alumni.

Corporate Partners – The Corporate Partners Program provides an opportunity for our community to advertise their businesses while supporting the school.

Fundraising Events – Episcopal hosts several marquee annual fundraising events that bring the ESJ community together in support of the school:

Bash: The Munnerlyn Campus’ annual fundraiser, Bash, a time-honored tradition at the school, first started in 1975. You are invited! Serve on the committee or just plan to attendBash is an opportunity for you to enjoy the Episcopal experience.

Beach Bash: A parent social held on the Beaches Campus. This annual, themed event is parent-volunteer led and is a great opportunity for parents to support the school while enjoying a fun evening with others.

Ortega River Run: For the past 48 years, the St. Mark’s Campus has been home to the Ortega River Run. Hosted by First Place Sports as a Grand Prix sanctioned event, this family-friendly morning includes a 5-mile run, 1-mile fun run, and a street fair with sponsor tents, games and activities for all ages.

A Vision for Art: A group art exhibition unique to Jacksonville, where more than 40 established and emerging artists from the greater Jacksonville community and beyond showcase their artwork for art patrons to purchase at the St. Mark’s Campus. During this fourday event, thousands of guests from across the region come together to support our artistic community and the mission of Episcopal School of Jacksonville.

Elements of ESJ

Throughout your time at Episcopal, you may hear words, acronyms, or phrases new to your family. Here are some common terms to know as you begin your journey at ESJ.

AIR - Awareness, Inclusion, and Respect (AIR) at Episcopal is a school-wide initiative that aligns with our identity as a school in the Episcopal tradition. The Baptismal Covenant of the Episcopal Church has been at the heart of our school since its founding, and contains within it the precepts of “respecting the dignity of every human being,” “loving your neighbor as yourself,” and living “by word and example the Good News of God in Christ.” All of these propel our efforts moving forward as a school community to welcome, include, recognize, and value all.

Celebrating Community Day - remembers and honors the school’s founding mission to be “doers of good.” Students and faculty spend the entire school day doing community service and reflecting on its value. Lower School campuses participate in an age appropriate way; Middle and Upper School students dedicate the day to service on and off campus at area nonprofit organizations.

ELP - Abbreviation of the Early Learning Program on the St. Mark’s Campus (ages 1-2).

Enrichments - Essential elements of Lower School curriculum to include visual art, music, dance, Innovation Lab, P.E., Spanish, and Christian education.

HSW - Abbreviation of Health, Safety, and Well-Being. Episcopal is a leader among independent schools in programming related to HSW in Northeast Florida. The school’s Health, Safety, and WellBeing (HSW) program has been in place for several years, each year expanding on ways to ensure students learn self care, mental health best practices, coping skills, and how to make healthy choices. All content is delivered in an age-appropriate way in an environment that is open and caring so that all students may participate fully in discussions and associated activities.

Spirit Day - designated dress down day where students can show their school spirit by wearing their Eagle gear, maroon and gold, and athletic wear.

Stress Down Days (Munnerlyn Campus) - students are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes on specifically designated days.

9GOA - abbreviation for Ninth Grade Orientation Adventure. Munnerlyn Campus ninth graders, along with their junior and senior counselors and faculty leaders, camp and hike in North Georgia during the first week of school. This annual trip strengthens class unity and provides incoming freshmen with the opportunity to get to know their classmates.

SUMMER Programs

Episcopal offers summer programs on the Munnerlyn Campus for students in rising grades K-12. Summer programs include academic classes, day camp, activities, arts, and sports camps. Registration can be found at esj.org/summer. Camp Create for rising ELP 2 - rising K students is offered on the St. Mark’s Campus.

ONCE AN EAGLE, Always an Eagle!