5 Shocking Changes & Key Facts About Chapin Elementary School (CES) For 2025-2026
Chapin Elementary School (CES) is currently undergoing one of its most significant transformative periods in recent history, driven by a new administrative team and a major infrastructure overhaul approved by the community. As of the current date, December 21, 2025, the school is preparing for a landmark 2025-2026 academic year that will see changes from the top leadership down to the grade structure, directly impacting families in the Chapin, South Carolina area.
The latest updates—including a new principal appointment and a massive grade-level expansion—make this a crucial time for parents, staff, and community members to understand the future direction of this highly-rated institution within Lexington-Richland School District Five. This deep dive reveals the five most significant changes and key facts you need to know about CES right now.
Chapin Elementary School (CES) Leadership Profile & Key Facts
Chapin Elementary School, located in Chapin, South Carolina, is a cornerstone of the community and a key component of the highly-regarded Lexington-Richland School District Five (Lexington 05). The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing environment focused on comprehensive student development.
- Location: 940 Old Bush River Road, Chapin, SC 29036
- School District: Lexington-Richland School District Five (Lexington 05)
- Grades Served (Current/2024-2025): PK (Pre-Kindergarten), K-4 (Kindergarten through 4th Grade)
- Grades Served (Future/2025-2026): K-5 (Kindergarten through 5th Grade) - *Pending completion of new wing.*
- Student Population: Approximately 792 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1
- New Principal (Effective April 8, 2025): Amy Sgorrano
- Previous Principal: Jesse Hutchinson
- Assistant Principal: Jackie Jackson-Hudson
- Key Focus: Challenging curriculum, academic, social, and emotional growth
New Principal Amy Sgorrano: A Fresh Era of Leadership
One of the most immediate and impactful changes for the 2025-2026 school year is the appointment of Amy Sgorrano as the new Principal of Chapin Elementary School. Announced on April 8, 2025, Sgorrano replaces Jesse Hutchinson, ushering in a fresh era of administrative leadership for the school.
Her role is critical as she will oversee the significant changes resulting from the recent bond referendum, including the physical expansion and the shift in the school's grade structure. The administration team, which includes Assistant Principal Jackie Jackson-Hudson, is tasked with maintaining the school's positive culture and high academic standards during this transition.
The 5 Major Updates Redefining Chapin Elementary (2025-2026)
The future of CES is being shaped by five key developments that are set to enhance the educational experience, increase capacity, and solidify the school's standing as a premier institution in the Lexington 05 district.
1. The Landmark Shift to a K-5 School
For years, Chapin Elementary has served students in grades PK, K-4. However, a major change is underway: CES is officially transitioning to a K-5 school. This expansion to include 5th grade is a direct result of the successful passage of the 2024 Bond Referendum.
This structural change aims to provide a more consistent and comprehensive elementary experience for students, keeping them at CES for an additional year before they transition to Chapin Middle School. The move is a strategic effort by Lexington-Richland School District Five to manage growing student enrollment and optimize educational facilities.
2. New Classroom Wing Construction: Eliminating Portables
The grade expansion necessitates a physical expansion. Construction has begun on a brand-new classroom wing at Chapin Elementary. The primary goal of this new educational facility is to enhance the learning environment and accommodate the influx of students, particularly the new 5th-grade class.
Crucially, the addition of this new wing will allow the school to eliminate the use of temporary portable classrooms, providing all students with modern, permanent learning spaces. This infrastructure upgrade is a significant investment in the long-term quality of education at CES.
3. Curriculum Focus: R2S Reading Plan and Holistic Growth
The academic mission of Chapin Elementary remains centered on a challenging curriculum that promotes high-level engagement. The school’s focus is not just on traditional subjects like language arts and mathematics, but also on the holistic development of the student—encompassing academic, social, and emotional growth.
A key program is the R2S Reading Plan, which is fundamental to laying a robust literacy foundation for all students, particularly those in the lower grades. The school community, guided by the School Improvement Council (SIC), works to ensure a safe, secure, diverse, and equitable learning environment for every child.
4. High Performance Ratings in a Premier District
Chapin Elementary School continues to be recognized for its high performance. It operates within Lexington 05, which is consistently ranked as one of the top school districts in South Carolina. CES itself holds a high rating, including an 'A' rating from Niche and a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger, reflecting the quality of its educational programs and the dedication of its staff.
The favorable 13:1 student-teacher ratio is a major factor contributing to this success, allowing for more individualized attention and a strong connection between educators and the approximately 792 students enrolled.
5. Active PTO and Strong Community Support
The school’s vibrant culture is heavily supported by a highly active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). The CES PTO's mission is to enhance the educational environment by funding key school events, academic programs, and supplying essential resources.
The PTO actively encourages parent involvement through volunteer opportunities and fundraising, such as the "shop, scan, and earn" programs, ensuring every dollar directly supports the students. This strong community bond was recently highlighted by a widespread effort to support a 4K student named Rosalie, who was diagnosed with leukemia, underscoring the school's deep-rooted culture of care and support.
What This Means for Chapin Families
The 2025-2026 school year marks a pivotal moment for Chapin Elementary. The combination of a new principal, a major expansion to K-5, and a new classroom wing signifies a commitment to future growth and educational excellence. Parents can expect a seamless transition for their children, with the new administration focused on maintaining the "smiling faces and positive culture" that CES is known for.
For families with older elementary students, the inclusion of 5th grade at CES means an extra year in a familiar, high-performing setting before moving on to Chapin Middle School. Prospective families can look forward to a modern facility and a challenging, yet nurturing, environment focused on the whole child.
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