Collier County Schools Shine at Awards for Communication Excellence

Collier County, Florida, USA - Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) is basking in the glow of recent accolades from the Sunshine State School Public Relations Association (SUNSPRA). At the “Tides of Change” annual conference in Orlando, the school district received a prestigious Radiant Award in the Bond/Finance Campaign category for their submission titled “Strategic Approach Leads to Record-High Referendum Approval” Florida Weekly reports that. This recognition comes as part of SUNSPRA’s inaugural introduction of awards focused on excellence in school public relations, communications, marketing, and community engagement.

CCPS didn’t stop there, bagging additional honors across various digital media and publications categories. Highlights include:

• Gold in Special Purpose Publications for “Blueprint for Success: Strategic Approach to Referendum Approval”
• Gold in Singular Video for “Sawdust and Sneakers”
• Silver in Marketing Materials for “2024 CCPS Tax-Neutral Referendum Materials”
• Bronze in Special Purpose Publications for “Pathway to Excellence – CCPS Strategic Plan Year One”

Chad Oliver, CCPS’s chief communication officer, highlighted the district’s dedication to effective communication, stressing that these awards reflect the hard work put in by the entire team. What’s next for CCPS? Not only do they shine in communications, but they also continue their commitment to educational excellence, a trend worth applauding in our community.

Protecting Our Coastal Wildlife

In the midst of these accomplishments, another important issue is rising along Florida’s coasts—beach-nesting birds are currently in their breeding season. As they face dangers from human disturbance, storms, and predators, Collier County is stepping up to protect these vulnerable creatures. Important nesting areas have been roped off to ensure the safety of species like least terns and black skimmers Florida Weekly adds.

The Second Chance Critical Wildlife Area in Collier County remains closed to boater access until August 31, to minimize disturbances in crucial nesting zones. As additional postings will appear on historically significant nesting beaches throughout Collier County, residents and visitors alike are urged to respect posted areas. A few simple recommendations include moving away swiftly if birds dive-bomb, keeping our beaches clean, and ensuring dogs are leashed or left at home.

Exciting Fall Programs Ahead

The Collier County Parks & Recreation Division is busy gearing up for the Fall 2025 season, announcing a wealth of recreational programs, classes, and events that promise to engage community members. Starting August 1, residents can register for an exciting lineup featuring after-school programs, holiday camps, sports leagues, aquatics, arts, and programs specifically designed for seniors Florida Weekly notes.

Celebrating Educational Excellence

As we look forward to the upcoming school year, the Education Foundation of Collier County—Champions For Learning—has revealed the 2024-2025 Teachers of Distinction. This initiative recognizes outstanding educators within CCPS under the esteemed Golden Apple Program. With 55 teachers from 54 schools designated as Teachers of Distinction, their high-impact practices are set to inspire not only their students but also their peers Champions For Learning highlights.

These educators will soon be visited by a volunteer selection committee to observe their innovative teaching methods. As a grand finale to the recognition, all honorees will be celebrated at The Golden Apple Celebration event on April 26th at Naples United Church of Christ, a celebration that promises to be both uplifting and inspiring for our community.

In conclusion, Collier County continues to showcase its commitment to excellence, whether through recognition in communications, nurturing our coastal environment, or honoring our dedicated educators. It’s a good deal to appreciate these strides as we move forward together!