Ten Years of Harkness Teaching in the Classroom
By Cathy Kanaday, Dean of Faculty Ten years ago, Episcopalās English classrooms underwent a quiet revolution. Traditional desks gave way to oval tables in the G Building, and the familiar rhythm of teacher lecture-discussions yielded to something more dynamic: the sound of students wrestling with ideas. In a recent sermon, The Rev. Teresa Seagle, Director…
A Lesson in Citizenship: Fourth Grade Students Witness 50 People Become U.S. Citizens
Fourth grade students recently had an unforgettable experience at the Federal Courthouse as they witnessed a Naturalization Ceremony where 50 individuals from 30 countries became U.S. citizens. They also engaged in a Q&A session with the presiding judge and took a sample citizenship test. Students were amazed by the depth of knowledge required to become…
Three Head to International Science Fair, 13 to State Fair
Congratulations to the Episcopal science research students who recently competed in the Northeast Florida Regional Science and Engineering Fair at Jacksonville University. Alexander Chindris ’25, James Steffes ’26, and Caden Lipari ’27 were selected to represent the region at the International Science Fair in Columbus, Ohio, where they will compete with 1,800 students from 75…
Students Collaborate with Professional Artists to Create Grade-Level Masterpieces
As part of A Vision for Artās Student Art Series, A Future for Art, St. Markās Campus students have a rare and exciting opportunity to work alongside professional artists to create unique, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Each grade level, from ELP 1 through grade five, is paired with a different artist, allowing students to explore diverse artistic…
Fifth Graders Dive into Conservation at Crystal River
Fifth grade students from the Beaches and St. Marks Campuses recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Crystal River, where they had the unique opportunity to explore the habitat of one of Floridaās most beloved marine mammalsāthe manatee. Guided by experts from River Ventures, students had an interactive learning experience, discovering firsthand the importance of…
47th Annual Ortega River Run Unites ESJ Community and Visitors
The 47th annual Ortega River Run, held on Saturday, February 8, drew 1,655 walkers and runners, all cheered on by ESJ cheerleaders and energized by the music of Episcopalās pep band. The event, which took place on ESJ, St. Markās Campus, attracted a large crowd, bringing together families and friends for a day full of…
Blending Tradition with Innovation: Students Explore Groundhog Day Using Books and Digital Tools
Leading up to Groundhog Day on February 2, first and second grade students utilized both books and technology to learn about the holidayās history and traditions. In the First Grade, students read The Substitute Groundhog and discussed what it means if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow. They used the Doink app and a greenscreen to…
Ash Wednesday Chapel Service (March 5)
Wednesday, March 5 Grades 1-5 8:25 a.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Parents are welcome to attend. Pre-Primary Chapel will take place in the Lori Schiavone Commons. Due to Chapel taking place in the morning, the normal Wednesday gathering will not occur on March 5.
Join the Fun at the 48th Annual Ortega River Run ā February 8th!
Get ready for a day of excitement at the 48th annual Ortega River Run on Saturday, February 8! This highly anticipated community event will bring over 2,000 participants and spectators to the ESJ, St. Markās Campus for a day filled with fitness, fun, and festivities. Whether you’re racing in the one-mile or five-mile grand prix,…
Episcopal Science Fair Winners Announced
Epsicopal Science Fair winners include first place earners Alex Chindris, James Steffes, Parthiv Reddy, Payton Marousky and Sophia Rubiano. “Judges were impressed with their scientific reasoning, experimental design, and presentation of the collected data,” said Marion Zeiner, Director of Scientific Research. “Multiple judges commented about the students’ depth of knowledge, ability to answer tough questions,…
1/23 & 1/24 Cold Weather Guidelines
Acceptable Tops: Sweaters, sweatshirts, turtlenecks, or long-sleeved shirts. All clothing should be school-appropriate. Acceptable Bottoms: Long pants (e.g., jeans, joggers, or other suitable pants). Skirts or shorts are permitted only with leggings underneath. Acceptable Accessories: Hats, gloves, and scarves (please note that hats should not be worn indoors). Acceptable Shoes: Warm, closed-toe and closed-heel shoes…
42 Artists to Spotlight Their Work at the 2025 A Vision for Art, Presented by Northern Trust
A total of 42 artists were chosen from more than 90 applicants to showcase their work at the sixth-annual A Vision for Art exhibition, taking place March 21-24, 2025, at the St. Markās Campus. The diverse lineup includes artists from Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Highlighting this yearās event is Mark Carson…
St. Markās Campus Students Prepare for the W.W. Gay Ortega River Run
In anticipation of the upcoming W.W. Gay Ortega River Run, Coach Abreu, St. Markās Campus P.E. Instructor, is leading students through a comprehensive training program designed to get them race-day ready. The race, which raises funds for the schoolās financial aid program, will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Coach Abreu has been working…
Beaches Campus Third Graders Share the Joy of the Season at Pablo Towers
The Beaches Campus third grade students recently brought warmth and cheer to the residents of Pablo Towers with a heartfelt visit that truly embodied the spirit of the season. The childrenās festive songs filled the air with holiday magic, creating a joyful atmosphere that touched everyone in attendance. In addition to their delightful performance, the…
Sixth Grade Visits Skidaway Island
The sixth grade went on its annual overnight trip to the University of GeorgiaĀ Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island last week. This trip is a culmination of everything sixth graders have studied during the first semester in science class, which includes invertebrates, fish, coastal ecosystems, and symbiosis. The trip is an opportunity for…
Lower School Prepares Hearts and Minds for Christmas With Lessons & Carols Services
Both Lower Schools recently held Lessons and Carols services in preparation for Christmas. The Beaches Campus fifth grade students performed The Festival of Lessons and Carols in the St. Paulās by-the-Sea sanctuary. During the performance, the Christmas story is told through scripture readings and Christmas songs. Grades first through fourth sing a carol together and…
Students Experience Jacksonvilleās Past with Field Trip to Historic Sites
Drew Haramis, St. Markās Campusā resident Jacksonville history expert, tour guide, and third grade teacher, recently led students on a field trip to Avondale, Riverside, Springfield, and Downtown Jacksonville. Highlights of their adventure included visits to iconic landmarks including City Hall, The Merrill House Museum, and the Old City Cemetery. Students also saw their award-winning…
Supporting Growth and Excellence: Galina and Daryle Scott’s Commitment to Episcopal
Galina and Daryle Scott have generously supported Episcopal’s mission for over five years, contributing annually to the Episcopal Fund and being among the first donors to the Beaches Campus Classroom Expansion (BCCE) capital campaign. Their unwavering commitment reflects their belief in ESJās vision for the future and the importance of investing in the next generation.…
First -Third Grade Students Shine in āThe Littlest Christmas Treeā Musical
First through third grade students premiered The Littlest Christmas Tree musical this morning, delighting a packed audience with their charming performance. The story follows a group of Christmas trees (played by students) competing for the coveted role of the Christmas tree selected by Santa and Mrs. Claus. In a surprising twist, Santa chooses the tiniest…
Beaches Campus Fifth Graders Host Pasta Dinner Event
The Beaches Campus gym recently underwent a transformation, hosting the fifth grade Pasta Dinner before the Thanksgiving Break. This delightful event included a performance that showcased the many talents of the Beaches Campus fifth grade students. Under the guidance of faculty and dedicated parent volunteers, the students embraced dual roles as both servers and performers.…
Kindergarten Presents āThe First Thanksgivingā
Kindergarten students presented āThe First Thanksgivingā on Friday, November 22, on stage in the Lori Schiavone Commons. Dressed as turkeys, Pilgrims, and Native Americans, students recited poems and performed adorable and hilarious songs, including the much-loved song āStrut Mr. Turkeyā! The kindergarten performance is the first of several opportunities for students to take center stage…