Explorer Bobcats Lead with PRIDE!
School Profile
Mission Statement:
All stakeholders in our community will work collaboratively to promote an environment of high expectations where all of our young explorers will have the opportunity to receive a quality, interactive education in a nurturing, safe and secure environment.
Grades: Pre K – 8th
Enrollment: 1511 students
Principal: Lisa Braithwaite
Assistant Principals: Andrew MacGregor, Dan O’Rourke and Katie Reynolds
School Hours: 8:35 AM – 3:10 PM
Principal's Message
Dear Explorer Bobcat Family,
As we step into another exciting chapter of our school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible energy, commitment, and resilience that define our community. Every day, I see Bobcat Pride in action—in our classrooms, on the playing fields, and throughout our campus. It’s more than a statement; it’s a reflection of who we are.
We are building a culture rooted in excellence, where every student is empowered to lead, learn, and grow. Our commitment to leadership is evident in the way our students take initiative, our staff models integrity, and our families support one another. Together, we are shaping a school environment that values respect, responsibility, and resilience.
I encourage you to stay connected with our school through this website, social media, and our regular communications. Your involvement is essential to the success of Explorer K-8, and we look forward to working together to create an exceptional educational experience for all students.
Let’s continue to uplift one another, celebrate our successes, and strive for greatness in all we do. With Bobcat Pride as our foundation, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
Here’s to a year of bold leadership!
With pride,
Lisa Braithwaite
Principal, Explorer K-8
352-797-7094
braithwaite_l@hcsb.k12.fl.us
View the full calendar to see all the exciting events we have happening in the next few weeks and months!
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As a first year Leader in Me School, Explorer K-8 is building student leadership through successful and competitive Middle School sports programs such as football, golf, volleyball, boys and girls basketball, flag football, tennis and track. Beginning, advanced and jazz band, along with chorus and ensemble opportunities are thriving at EK8. Middle School Beta Club, and elementary/middle school Student Council programs are tapping into culture building activities while iddle and elementary art electives are nurturing budding artists.
The Bobcat Nation meets and exceeds when supporting diverse students by providing Exceptional Education Services, McKinney-Vento opportunities for the homeless students, English Language development, and social worker/counseling services. Free breakfast and lunch are served daily, and we host the YMCA for before and after school care.
Registration can be done in person at the school office.
Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
Click here for more information.
We welcome family involvement! Parents can volunteer in classrooms, join the school advisory council, participate in family nights, or attend school events. Your involvement strengthens our school community and supports your child's learning experience.
Safety is one of our top priorities. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills and guardians trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
Core Values
At Hernando School District, our core values—"Learn It," "Love It," and "Live It"—are the heart of our educational philosophy, guiding every decision and interaction. These principles shape an environment where every student can thrive.
Learn it.
We empower students to "Learn It" by fostering a dynamic and engaging educational environment. Our commitment provides every student with the essential tools and expert guidance to build a strong foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Love it.
We encourage our students to "Love It" by sparking curiosity and a lifelong passion for discovery. We strive to create an atmosphere where students feel a genuine connection to what they're learning, fueling their desire to explore new ideas and possibilities.
Live it.
Finally, we challenge our students to "Live It" by applying their knowledge and skills to become responsible, contributing members of our diverse and ever-evolving world. This means taking what's learned in the classroom and applying it to real-world situations, making a positive impact.
Bobcats lead with PRIDE!
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