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| October 2026 |
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| I am proud to share that I recently received a letter from Florida Commissioner of Education Henry Mack notifying us that Collier County Public Schools has been designated an Academically High-Performing School District. As one of only 18 districts statewide to earn this distinction, we celebrate The Power of We and the shared commitment to excellence that drives student success. |
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| October is National Principals Month, a time to recognize the dedicated school leaders who help create positive learning environments for our students and staff. Our principals play a vital role in supporting academic success, fostering strong school communities, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. We are grateful for their leadership, commitment, and the lasting impact they make in our schools each day. |
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| This month, I am especially proud to recognize one of our outstanding alumni, Gabriel Chalick, a 2020 graduate of Gulf Coast High School. Gabe has been honored with the prestigious 2026 Fulbright-Harriet Hale Woolley Award and Scholarship in the Arts and began a year-long research and arts residency in France this October. An accomplished trumpet player and music scholar, Gabe's achievement is a testament to the limitless opportunities available to students who pursue their passions and dreams. We congratulate him on this incredible honor and look forward to following his journey abroad. |
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| Speaking of musical talent, our high school student-musicians will be performing at the annual CCPS Band Show on Saturday, October 24 at Barron Collier High. This event is the Florida Bandmasters Association District 22 Marching Music Performance Assessment (MPA). We are honored to welcome the 13th Army Band of the Florida National Guard, based in Miramar, Florida, to perform the National Anthem at 6:45 p.m. The first band performance will follow at 7:00 p.m. Click here to purchase tickets. |
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I also invite you to join us for two exciting upcoming events that support our schools and bring families together:
- CCPS Family Hockey Night (November 20, 2026 at 7:30pm) - Join our CCPS family as the Florida Everblades take on the Savannah Ghost Pirates during Country Night. The first 1,500 fans will receive a free cowboy hat, and United Way of Collier and the Keys will receive $1 from every discounted CCPS ticket sold. Tickets are available for $20.81, including transaction fees. Visit www.collierschools.com/hockeynight to purchase tickets.
- CCPS 5K Walk-Run (December 5, 2026 at 8:00am) - Grab your red, white, and blue gear and help us celebrate America's 250th anniversary at our annual 5K Walk-Run. Join us for a competitive run, a fun dash to the finish line, or a healthy walk. Entry fees increase on November 1, so make sure to sign up early at www.collierschools.com/CCPS5K. We are grateful to all of our event sponsors whose support helps make this event possible, and we extend a special thank you to our Power Sponsor, Suncoast Credit Union, for their continued partnership and investment in our students and schools.
As we move through the school year, we look forward to celebrating more student achievements and creating meaningful opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. Thank you for your continued support of CCPS.
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| ~ Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli |
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| Dear Friends, |
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| As I contemplate leaving the office of School Board Member, I want to express my sincere thanks for the opportunity that was afforded me, to be a part of this District. |
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| The friends I have made-from the attendants at the front desk, to the staff, the Superintendent and the other School Board Members are something I will always remember. |
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| I have plowed the ground for the next farmer-Jeff Donaldson-to plant good seed on this fertile ground. |
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| My thoughts and prayers will always be for the success of the schools across the nation, to "Remember where we came from, and what we've been about." |
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| This Board has many accomplishments to be proud of, and I am confident that many more accomplishments lie ahead. |
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| This is 'Farewell,' but it is not Goodbye. I hope to be seeing you around for a long time to come! |
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| In His Service and Yours, |
| Jerry Rutherford, School Board Member |
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| NAPLES HIGH GOLF ATHLETE GETS HOLE-IN-ONE |
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| Congratulations to Naples High School (NHS) Sophomore Cam Dechaine who shot a hole-in-one at a recent competition at Royal Poinciana Golf Club. It was on a par 3 at hole 8 on the Pines Course. What an incredible accomplishment! |
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| CCPS CLASSICS SUMMER READING PROGRAM WINNERS |
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| A great book can spark a lifelong love of reading. That's the idea behind the CCPS Classics Program. Each year, students are encouraged to explore timeless stories that challenge, inspire, and entertain. This summer's top readers earned a special surprise! |
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| WATCH VIDEO |
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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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