|
|
|
|
 |
| August 2026 |
| |
 |
| |
| The 2026-2027 school year is officially underway, and I am thrilled to report that it has been a fantastic start across our district. There is nothing more inspiring than seeing the excitement on our students' faces as they begin a new year of learning, growth, and opportunity. |
| |
| I had the privilege of starting the first day of school at our district's newest school, Ave Maria Elementary School, where I was joined by Sheriff Rambosk to welcome students and families as they arrived for their very first day. The enthusiasm and energy from our students, parents, and staff made it a memorable occasion and a wonderful way to begin the school year. Just a couple of weeks before students arrived on campus, we celebrated the official opening of Ave Maria Elementary with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This beautiful new school represents our community's continued investment in education and our commitment to providing outstanding learning environments for every student. Click here to watch a video from the ribbon cutting. |
| |
| One of the greatest strengths of Collier County Public Schools is our exceptional educators. We invite parents, students, staff, and community members to recognize outstanding teachers for the 37th Annual Golden Apple Awards, presented by Champions For Learning. Thank-A-Teacher nominations are open through September 16, 2026. These nominations not only provide an opportunity to express appreciation for the remarkable teachers who make a difference every day, but they also play an important role in identifying Teachers of Distinction who are considered for Golden Apple honors. Click here to submit a Thank-A-Teacher nomination. |
| |
| Community involvement is an important part of our educational process. Applications are now being accepted for individuals interested in serving on an Instructional Materials Work Group for the following topics: HOPE/Physical Education, French Language, Spanish Language, K-5 Math, 6-8 Math, Algebra, and Geometry. We encourage interested parents, educators, and community members to apply and contribute to this important work. Click here to to access the application. |
| |
| As we begin this exciting new school year, thank you for choosing Collier County Public Schools. Together, we remain committed to delivering Proven Excellence, creating Opportunities Without Limits, ensuring Every Student Belongs, and graduating students who are Prepared for What's Next. By embracing the Power of We, we continue to strengthen our schools, support our students, and achieve excellence in education. |
| |
| I wish all of our students, families, and staff a successful and rewarding school year. |
| |
| ~ Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli |
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
 |
| |
| There’s something special about the beginning of a new school year. The hallways are busy again, classrooms are coming to life, and there’s that familiar sense of excitement about what the year ahead will bring. |
| |
| As we welcome our students and families back, I want to take a moment to thank our teachers, administrators, and staff for all they do to prepare our schools and support our students. Their commitment makes such a difference every day. |
| |
| As a School Board member, I’m looking forward to another year of listening, learning, and working together to make our schools the very best they can be. Most importantly, I’m excited to see our students grow, discover new opportunities, and accomplish things they may not have thought possible. |
| |
| In case you did not hear the news, I ran unopposed this election cycle, so I will be serving another four-year term officially beginning in November 2026 through November 2030. My plan is to stay focused on our Board priorities with a focus on continuous improvement for our District. |
| |
| Our District was recognized with another “A” grade from the State, and many of our schools experienced significant improvement! Congratulations!!!! Here’s to a wonderful ‘26–‘27 school year! Welcome back, and let’s make it a great one! |
| |
| With gratitude, |
| |
| Kelly Mason, School Board Member |
|
| |
|
 |
| |
|
|
 |
| |
| FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL BRINGS ENERGY, EXCITEMENT, AND OPPORTUNITY |
| |
| From welcoming students and reconnecting with friends to inspiring lessons and unforgettable smiles, our schools were filled with excitement, energy, and opportunity on the first day. |
| |
| WATCH VIDEO |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| |
| EVERY PAIR OF SHOES MAKES A DIFFERENCE |
| |
| Thanks to the generosity of Laces of Love, our school counselors received brand new shoes to take back to their campuses for students in need. Another example of the Power of We! |
| |
| WATCH VIDEO |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| FEEDBACK WELCOME |
| Let us know what you think about the newsletter, our website, or if you have suggestions for future newsletters. |
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
| Collier County Public Schools |
| p: (239) 377-0001 |
| |
| School Board |
| Mrs. Stephanie Lucarelli, Chair • Mr. Erick Carter, Vice Chair |
| Ms. Kelly Mason, Member • Mr. Tim Moshier, Member • Mr. Jerry Rutherford, Member |
| |
| Superintendent |
| Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli |
| |
| Copyright © 2026 Collier County Public Schools |
| |
|
