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| May 2026 |
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| Across Collier County Public Schools, we continue to see firsthand why families choose and stay with our public schools. From developing future leaders to celebrating student success, this is a wonderful time to reflect on the strength of our district.
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| Congratulations to the members of our Immokalee Leaders Cohort, who earned their Master’s in Educational Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University this month. These educators are a powerful example of our commitment to growing our own leaders, professionals who were raised here, educated here, and are now leading here. Investing in people who know and love our community makes our schools stronger for every student.
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| Community partnerships are another reason CCPS continues to be a trusted choice for families. We recently hosted a Community Forum on Social Media, Online Gaming, Child Exploitation, and Human Trafficking, in partnership with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and Operation Light Shine. Thank you to our presenters and to the families and community members who attended. These conversations matter, and they reflect our shared commitment to student safety and well-being. If you were unable to join us live, or would like to revisit the discussion, the forum was recorded and is available for replay on our website at www.collierschools.com/communityforum. |
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| High school graduation is just around the corner, taking place Thursday, May 21, and Friday, May 22. This is truly my favorite time of year, as it marks the culmination of a K-12 educational journey for each of our students. Commencement ceremonies will be streamed live at www.collierschools.com/graduation, where you can also find specific information for each high school’s commencement date, time, and location. The Class of 2026, numbering approximately 3,300 seniors, has accomplished so much already, including earning more than $36 million in scholarships. Congratulations, graduates! |
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| Finally, a reminder that the last day of school for students is Friday, May 29. We wish our students a safe, fun, and memorable summer. At the same time, we encourage continued learning, whether curling up with a good book found on our CCPS Classics reading lists or exploring a new interest. Families can find a variety of learning resources on our Summer Learning website at www.collierschools.com/summerlearning. |
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| Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Collier County Public Schools. |
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| ~ Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli |
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| UPCOMING |
| DATES TO NOTE |
| May 20 |
| School Board Work Session (Budget) at 9:00am |
| May 21-22 |
| High School Graduation Days |
| May 22 |
| Early Dismissal Day |
| May 25 |
| No School (Memorial Day) |
| May 29 |
| Last Day of School for Students / Early Dismissal Day |
| June 3 |
| Regular School Board Meeting at 9:00am |
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| As the school year begins to wind down, we can say that we have had a very productive year; one new school occupied, and another almost ready. The graduation rates are up and attendance rates are good. |
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| My wife and I attended the “Laws of Life” awards dinner at the Hilton in March and were pleased to meet the 16 finalists—out of over 2,000 entries! The finalists at each grade level gave their essays as a speech and did a fantastic job. Pity the poor judges who had to whittle the field down from more than 2,000 entries to only 4 winners! The essays portrayed the traits in the Student Conduct Policy, showing respect, morals and ethics, etc., which had been shaping their character over the years. |
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| I am looking forward to the celebration of our 250th Anniversary on July 4th this year, to proclaim Liberty over all the land. LET FREEDOM RING! |
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| Have a Patriotic summer! |
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| Jerry Rutherford, School Board Member |
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| JROTC CADETS PARTICIPATE IN HONOR FLIGHT |
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| JROTC cadets from Aubrey Rogers High, Barron Collier High, Golden Gate High, and Gulf Coast High served as Guardians during a recent Honor Flight. These JROTC Guardians accompanied veterans on their trip to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials honoring their service and were responsible for the veterans’ safety, comfort, and overall experience throughout the day. Thank you, all, for your service! |
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| SEA GATE ELEMENTARY TEACHER HONORED FOR SUPPORTING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES |
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| Congratulations to ESE teacher Kristyn Stetson of Sea Gate Elementary for receiving the Debra Husted Dreams Can Come True Outstanding Educator in Transition Award from the Florida Division on Career Development and Transition! This award is presented annually to an outstanding educator who provides exemplary transition services to students with disabilities. Kristyn’s dedication to supporting her students for life beyond the classroom reflects the very best of our school community. We are grateful for the compassion and care she shows each student every day, helping them build confidence, independence, and a path toward their dreams. |
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| FEEDBACK WELCOME |
| Let us know what you think about the newsletter, our website, or if you have suggestions for future newsletters. |
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| Collier County Public Schools |
| p: (239) 377-0001 |
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| School Board |
| Mrs. Stephanie Lucarelli, Chair • Mr. Erick Carter, Vice Chair |
| Ms. Kelly Mason, Member • Mr. Tim Moshier, Member • Mr. Jerry Rutherford, Member |
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| Superintendent |
| Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli |
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| Copyright © 2026 Collier County Public Schools |
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