June 5, 2026
Students Never Had To Look For Him
For 14 years, students at James S. Rickards High School knew where to find their principal. Every morning Mr. Cook was at the crosswalk. At lunch. At their games. At the bus ramp every afternoon. ...
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School Profile
Mission Statement:
Located in the heart of the historic Chaires Community, Chaires Elementary was founded in 1929. We are committed to providing opportunities designed to meet individual needs and ensure that every child experiences success, academically, emotionally, and socially. Our vision is to provide students with a caring and supportive learning environment that allows each child to reach their full potential through quality instruction and experiences. Together with our parents, community partners, and staff, we can make a difference in the lives of our students.
Grades: Kindergarten – 5th
Enrollment: 830 students
Principal: Mike Holmes
Assistant Principal: Brooks Sperling
School Hours: 8:30 AM – 2:50 PM
Principal’s Message
Principal Mike Holmes brings over 12 years of educational leadership and a passion for student success, driving excellence and innovation throughout our school.
Dear Students, Parents, Staff, and Community Members,
Welcome to Chaires Elementary School, where we are committed to fostering an inclusive and engaging educational environment for all students. As principal, it is my honor to lead a district that prioritizes academic excellence, innovation, and the overall well-being of every student.
At Chaires, our dedicated team of educators and staff work collaboratively to inspire lifelong learners and responsible citizens. We understand that every student is unique, and our goal is to provide personalized pathways that support each learner’s academic and personal growth.
As we embark on another school year, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. Our focus on key initiatives, such as STEAM programs, mental health support, or community engagement reflects our commitment to preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world.
I encourage you to stay connected with our district through this website, social media, and our regular communications. Your involvement is essential to the success of our schools, and we look forward to working together to create an exceptional educational experience for all students. Thank you for your continued support of Chaires Elementary. Together, we will achieve great things!
Warm regards,
Phone: 850.488.5977 | holmesr@leonschools.net
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find what you need? Utilize the search feature at the top of the page to look up key words.
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We offer a range of programs, including special education, English language development, gifted education, and counseling services to support diverse student needs.
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Safety is our top priority. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills, and on-site staff trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
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School Hours are 8:30am to 2:30pm
Supervision Hours are 7:45am to 3:15pm
Breakfast 7:45am to 8:25am
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Registration is straightforward and can be done online or in person at the school office. Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
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We welcome family involvement! Parents can volunteer in classrooms, join the PTA, participate in family nights, or attend school events. Your involvement strengthens our school community and supports your child's learning experience.
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Technology is integrated to enhance learning, with resources such as interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software that support students' digital literacy and engagement.
Latest News
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June 5, 2026
District Summer Hours
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