Nestled in the heart of Tallahassee, James S. Rickards High School stands as a beacon of pride, resilience, and progress, honoring the legacy of its namesake, James S. Rickards. A visionary in education, Rickards served as a principal and superintendent in Broward County before dedicating 20 years as the Secretary of the Florida Education Association from 1929 to 1948. During his tenure, he authored the 1931 Florida instructional unit law, paving the way for state funding to support public education beyond teacher salaries. He was instrumental in establishing a teacher retirement system and passionately advocated for teacher credit unions, creating lasting impacts for Florida’s educators. His commitment to education and his legacy live on at Rickards High School.

Since its founding, Rickards High has upheld a commitment to academic excellence, diverse talent, and a welcoming environment for all students. Originally represented by the "Redskins" mascot, the school embraced a new chapter in 2000, transforming into the "Raiders" in a powerful step toward unity and respect for all communities. With Royal Blue and Varsity Gold as its iconic colors, Rickards is home to one of the most respected International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, cultivating well-rounded graduates prepared for global success.

Rickards’ journey has seen remarkable growth, from early struggles to an "A" performance grade in 2010—a milestone celebrated with pride across the campus. The Rickards experience goes far beyond the classroom. Annual events like the multicultural showcase Pangaea embody the school’s rich diversity, where students share their heritage and talents through music, dance, and fashion, reflecting the vibrant, inclusive spirit that Rickards instills in each Raider. Meanwhile, the Math Team brings national recognition, achieving high honors and establishing Rickards' reputation for academic excellence.

Rickards also shines in athletics and the arts. Its award-winning marching band, known for its high-energy 90-degree marching style, has performed at venues like the Orange Bowl and even appeared on the big screen in HBO’s Recount. Raiders athletes excel across sports, while the school boasts alumni like NFL stars William Gay and Corey Fuller, MLB player Mallex Smith, and Grammy-winning artist T-Pain.

Today, Rickards High is a family of Raiders whose pride and dedication unite them across generations. Past, present, or future, every Raider carries the legacy of James S. Rickards High—rooted in excellence, diversity, and an enduring promise of greatness. Once a Raider, always a Raider!