Captiva's Golden Apple Collegium Empowers Educators at Beachfront Retreat

Sanibel, United States - The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools recently wrapped up the 36th Annual Collegium for the Advancement of Education, held from June 9-14 on the stunning shores of Captiva Island. This professional development retreat was a wonderful blend of learning and leisure, designed to foster growth, connection, and appreciation among educators.

The event drew the participation of twenty-three dedicated teachers, including six winners of the coveted 2025 Golden Apple Award, along with two administrators. This year’s Collegium truly aimed to empower and recognize those educators who go above and beyond in their classrooms. It was a celebration of excellence in teaching, set against the backdrop of a beachfront resort, which did a good deal to enhance both relaxation and professional enrichment.

A Focused Agenda

This year’s agenda was packed with engaging workshops and collaborative sessions that revolved around innovative teaching strategies, student engagement, and educational leadership. Each attendee earned 40 hours of service learning, contributing to their professional development goals. As Foundation President and CEO Marshall T. Bower noted, the dedication and resourcefulness of the participating educators were commendable and vital for the community.

It’s always inspiring to witness the energy in such gatherings. At the Collegium, trainers shared insights that highlighted the growth and inspiration felt throughout the week. Each Golden Apple Recipient had the spotlight during introductions, providing a chance for them to share their educational journeys and philosophies. Their heartfelt speeches left a lasting impression, fuelling motivation among fellow educators and the broader community.

Creating Connections

Evenings were filled with delightful activities, including beachside relaxation and social events, not to mention scrumptious dinners at local hotspots. A memorable cruise to Cabbage Key added to the spirit of camaraderie that encapsulated the event. Attendees mingled and formed connections, making the most of both leisure and learning.

The retreat concluded with a celebratory dinner, which saw current and former Golden Apple recipients alongside foundation board members, business partners, and sponsors. It was a moment to reflect on the impact of their collective efforts in education and to recognize the invaluable support from sponsors like Suncoast Credit Union, The Community Foundation, and the Fred & Jean Allegretti Foundation. A special shout-out went to Sandy Stilwell Youngquist for her generous hospitality and unwavering support of the Collegium.

As the excitement of the week continues to resonate within the community, it’s clear that the Collegium serves not just as a platform for professional growth but as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated educators have on the lives of their students and the community as a whole. This gathering left all participants with a sense of unity and motivation to carry forward the lessons learned.

Indeed, there’s something to be said for the fusion of education and community spirit found on Captiva Island this June—an inspiring reminder of the pivotal role educators play and the importance of fostering their development.

For more on this inspiring event, visit Captiva Sanibel or learn more about the Golden Apple Collegium at Lee School Foundation.