Michael Chaires was already considering a career in teaching when he was a student at Palatka Junior-Senior High School. However, he never dreamed that he would be the assistant principal of his alma mater, much less designated the Florida Assistant Principal of the Year for 2024 by the Florida Department of Education.
“I was very surprised,” Chaires says, recalling the moment he found out he had won the award. “I was kind of shocked, to be honest.”
Modesty comes naturally to Chaires, who admits he normally avoids the spotlight in favor of providing support behind the scenes. He acknowledges his peers’ outstanding leadership, mentioning, “I’m not sure what I do that’s different from any other assistant principal around the state of Florida.”
PJSHS believes he is doing something different. Students and staff dedicated an entire week to highlighting the assistant principal in celebration of the state’s recognition. Dress up days, a pep rally, and even a parade were planned to underline his accomplishments.
Michael Chaires (Ed.S.’18)
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications, Chaires found his passion to be in education and began his career as a substitute teacher. He spent a few years teaching elementary, middle, and high school in Putnam County before a social studies position opened up at his own PJSHS.
“I always loved social studies, even in middle school,” he explains. “I had some great social studies teachers who just made class fun, and I really enjoyed them.”
After getting his master’s degree in school counseling from the University of North Florida, Chaires spent nearly a decade at Palatka High counseling students. He emphasizes that helping kids navigate high school life was incredibly rewarding and still influences his approach as a mentor.
“I try to keep a counselor’s perspective in just about all that I do,” Chaires explains.
He transitioned into his current position as assistant principal in 2019 after graduating from UF with a specialist degree in educational leadership. With a doctorate looming unmarked on his bucket list, Chaires knew he wanted to return to UF’s College of Education to continue his studies.
“The professors, what they invest in us, the curriculum – I feel like I have been prepared for what I’ve experienced as an administrator.”
“I’m a Gator!” He laughs. “I’ve always been a Gator. The professors, what they invest in us, the curriculum – I feel like I have been prepared for what I’ve experienced as an administrator.”
As a current educational leadership doctoral candidate, Chaires is adamant about the positive influence UF has had on his career. He emphasizes the professors’ engagement with him and his fellow students, saying, “The personal care that they put into teaching us has been very valuable to what I’ve become.”
“Dr. Curran reached out to congratulate me after the announcement was made,” he continues. “I told him that the relationships our professors build with us – getting to know us, taking an interest in things that we do – have really impacted me as a leader.”
As coordinator of the educational leadership and policy program, Chris Curran, Ph.D., had high praise for Chaires. “We couldn’t be more proud of Michael’s accomplishments as a school leader. The dedication and community building he brings everyday to his role as an assistant principal is equally reflected in his high-quality work as a doctoral candidate at UF. Michael reflects the EduGator commitment to effective and dynamic leadership, and this state-wide recognition is well-deserved.”
Chaires is most excited about his state recognition because it allows him to spotlight his hometown and the school community he has been part of for decades.
“I’m just happy to bring some positive news about Palatka High School,” he explains. “I want people to know that good things are coming out of Palatka and Putnam County."
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