Why did Chloe want to raise money for Make-A-Wish?

Chloe’s motivation came directly from her own experience. “I got a Make-A-Wish for myself, so I want to give back to the Make-A-Wish program,” she said.

That simple reason carried real weight. Chloe knows firsthand how meaningful it is when people show up for a child facing ongoing challenges. Her fundraiser was not just about collecting money. It was about paying forward something that changed her life.

How did this Naples student turn an idea into a schoolwide fundraiser?

Chloe began by presenting her idea to school administrators, who supported the plan. She then brought it to the National Junior Honor Society and secured volunteers to help collect donations in the courtyard each morning before school.

The fundraiser itself was designed to be fun and competitive. Chloe wanted something that would engage her classmates, and after considering several options, her assistant principal suggested Penny Wars.

That idea gave the school an easy way to participate while keeping the energy high.

How did Penny Wars work at Oakridge Middle School?

Students in grades six through eight competed for a dress-down day and a sweet treat. Pennies added positive points to a grade’s total, while higher-value coins and bills counted against that grade. A quarter, for example, was worth negative 25 points.

That meant students could help their own grade by adding pennies or sabotage another grade by dropping silver coins or dollar bills into a competitor’s box. The format made the fundraiser lively, strategic, and easy to understand.

• Pennies counted as positive points
• Silver coins and bills counted as negative points
• Students could boost their own grade or hurt another grade’s score
• The winning grade earned a dress-down day and a sweet treat

The campaign raised $1,086.13, with the eighth grade finishing on top.

What makes Chloe’s story so personal?

Her desire to help others is rooted in her own medical journey. Chloe had a stroke while still in utero, leaving the left side of her body weaker and smaller. She lives with pain and faces daily obstacles, including difficulty climbing stairs. She cannot compete in sports and has other limitations.

Even so, her mother, Megan Seyer, says Chloe meets life with unusual strength and kindness. “We are so blessed,” she said. “Is she in pain all the time? Yes. Is she a fighter and is she strong? Yes. I have the most kind-hearted, beautiful girl that I could not be more proud of.”

That combination of resilience and compassion is what gives Chloe’s fundraiser its heart.

What did Make-A-Wish mean to Chloe and her family?

The Make-A-Wish experience left a lasting impression on the entire Seyer family. Chloe was granted a wish to be a princess for a day at Disney World, and the family stayed at the organization’s village in Orlando, where they were surrounded by entertainment, gifts, and thoughtful touches.

For Chloe’s mother, the experience offered something every parent hopes for: joy and relief in the middle of something hard. “Her life is so challenging — you just want some sense of normalcy, some happiness,” Seyer said. “It was a blessing to see her smile and feel accepted.”

Chloe still remembers specific details. “The thing I really remember was the Make-A-Wish Village,” she said. “One of my favorite parts was the carousel. There is a lunchroom. There is a salon there. There is also an ice cream store. There is a place to put your wishes. I can see my wish. It is still there.”

How did leading the fundraiser change Chloe?

Beyond the money raised, Chloe said organizing the campaign helped her grow. Leading a schoolwide effort meant speaking to administrators, recruiting volunteers, and stepping into visible leadership roles that felt intimidating at first.

She said it was nerve-racking to present the idea to the National Junior Honor Society and even more daunting to appear on the school news and address the student body. Still, she did it.

“I had to figure out what to do, and use my resources and learn how to be a leader,” Chloe explained. “It was really a boost in confidence.”

What can other parents and students learn from Chloe’s example?

For families in Collier and Lee Counties, Chloe’s story is a reminder that kids do not have to wait until adulthood to make a meaningful difference. A school fundraiser, a service project, or one well-supported idea can teach leadership, empathy, and courage all at once.

It also shows what can happen when adults take a young person’s idea seriously. Chloe had the vision, but school administrators, faculty, and student volunteers helped turn that vision into something real.

• Listen when your child wants to help others
• Encourage projects that connect service with personal meaning
• Support opportunities for students to speak, lead, and organize
• Show kids that even small donations can add up to real impact

What happens when a wish becomes a purpose?

In March, Chloe presented the funds she raised at a local Make-A-Wish gala, where she also gave a speech. There, she shared more of her story and explained what the organization has meant to her life.

“I explained my whole life experience with having my stroke. At the end I said how much Make-A-Wish helps my life and how I feel more special in a good way. It is hard when you have a disability, but when you see people that have your back and make you feel like you belong, it makes you feel really good.”

That is what makes Chloe more than a fundraiser organizer or a middle school student with a good idea. She is a young person who received kindness, remembered it, and decided to pass it on. That is a princess with a purpose.

Why does this story matter for Naples families?

Stories like Chloe’s matter because they show the best of a community. They remind us that children can lead, schools can rally, and personal hardship can be transformed into generosity.

For parents raising children with disabilities or medical challenges, Chloe’s story may also feel especially meaningful. Her experience reflects both the daily reality of living with limitations and the deep importance of being seen, celebrated, and included. Families looking for local support can explore special needs resources for Collier and Lee families and more special needs articles for Southwest Florida families.

And for families hoping to raise kids who give back, Neapolitan Family offers more ideas through stories about teen volunteerism and charity events in Collier County, and tips on how to choose the best volunteer activities for your family..

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The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center (Collier CAC) holds its annual “Pinwheels at the Pier” event on Friday, April 3, at 8 a.m., at Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. The event marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month and is free and open to the public.

Pinwheel gardens sprout up all over the U.S. each April to symbolize every child’s right to a safe and happy childhood. Pinwheels at the Pier is thought to be the largest pinwheel garden in the country, and the only one planted on a tropical beach.

Now in its 10th year, the pinwheel garden takes a unique art form, each created by a different team of volunteers under the direction of Collier CAC, The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County. In prior years it has bloomed as a giant pot of flowers, a heart embraced by loving hands, and an undulating silver and blue ribbon along the shore. In 2023, it was a giant palm tree. In a gentle breeze with sunbeams dancing on the shiny metallic pinwheels it gave the illusion of swaying feathery fronds. The sparkle is visible more than a mile along the beach in each direction.

The design is traditionally secret until the morning of the event. Early morning walkers can watch it evolve and guess what it will be. The child-friendly display makes a memorable family selfie spot, and a supply of pinwheels is kept aside for children drawn to the sparkle who would like to plant one in the garden.

Planting begins around 8 a.m. and continues until noon. Beachgoers, members of the media, law enforcement, and several local children’s support agencies stop by to plant a pinwheel. Afterwards, the pinwheels are gathered up to be re-imagined as next year’s creation. The pinwheel team ensures that nothing remains except footprints and seashells. 

To learn more about “Pinwheels at the Pier” or to purchase a pinwheel, visit caccollier.org/patp.

“Their plight is often invisible.”

“Unlike many nonprofit organizations, we aren’t able to put faces to the need,” says Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “Our work is privacy-driven for the children’s safety.  So, this colorful, artistic approach is our way to spotlight the often-invisible plight of abused children and the services we provide. Pinwheels at the Pier generates surprise and delight, resulting in new awareness and more children being helped.”

“As a community we can all become more alert.”

  “It’s always a beautiful experience.” says popular NBC-2 anchor Peter Busch, who has been a supporter of Collier CAC’s work for nearly a decade and often comes to give a dedication. “As the parents of three daughters, my wife, Rachel, and I are acutely aware of the dangers children can face, even within a family or from trusted adults in their lives. We take our responsibility very seriously to provide a safe and happy place to grow up. As a community we need to know that child advocacy organizations like CAC are available, at no cost, day or night, 24/7, and my hope is that we all become more alert to the plights of children in crisis. That’s why I’m honored to be part of this awareness event every April.”  

About the CAC

Collier CAC is a 501(c)3 immediate response facility serving victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. Its medically directed Child Protection Team (CPT), therapists, counselors, and advocates assist over 2,500 children and their family members each year. While they come from all socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds, they share a common experience of lasting emotional scars. CAC often works with a child for several years. To learn more about Collier CAC or to become involved, visit CACcollier.org. To report abuse, call 1.800.962.2873 

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For families in Collier County Public Schools, the award is more than a headline. It is a reminder that strong leadership at school can shape a child’s daily experience, raise expectations and open doors far into the future.

Why does this Collier County principal award matter to families?

The Florida TaxWatch Principal Leadership Award recognizes 15 of Florida’s most successful principals from high-risk public schools. Winners are selected using weighted Florida Department of Education data, making this an award grounded in student performance and growth.

That data-driven approach is one reason Budzynski said the recognition feels especially meaningful. The award reflects the work of students, teachers and staff together, not just one person.

“I’m definitely humbled and honored to receive the award,” Budzynski said. “I’m competitive for kids, and that competitive nature in me is good because it makes us do the right thing and work a little harder and motivates the staff to work a little harder.”

• It highlights student growth, not just school reputation.
• It recognizes leadership in a high-risk public school setting.
• It shines a light on the teamwork behind school improvement.
• It creates a direct benefit for one student through a scholarship.

For parents, that last point may matter most. School awards can sometimes feel distant from day-to-day family life. This one leads to a real, immediate opportunity for a child.

How did Village Oaks Elementary earn this recognition?

Budzynski was recognized for her work leading Village Oaks Elementary School and helping transform the school’s culture and outcomes. She pointed to collaboration, planning and persistence as the drivers behind the school’s success.

“I love the process,” Budzynski said. “It wasn’t a nomination form. It’s all about the data, which speaks volumes to how our students worked so hard over the years, and our staff collaborated, planning and making sure we did whatever it takes to help our students be successful.”

That idea of “whatever it takes” is often what families notice first in a strong principal. It can show up in clearer communication, higher expectations, better support for teachers and a school climate where children feel seen.

Jeff Kottkamp, president and CEO of Florida TaxWatch, underscored the role principals play in student success. He noted that school leadership is second only to classroom instruction among school-related factors that affect learning. Good principals help good teachers do their best work.

• They set the tone for school culture.
• They support teachers and staff.
• They keep the focus on student growth.
• They help families trust the school community.

Village Oaks families have seen that leadership up close. Budzynski’s award reflects years of effort that reached beyond test scores and into the daily habits that help children thrive.

Who received the scholarship, and why was he chosen?

As part of the award, Florida TaxWatch partners with the Florida Prepaid College Foundation to provide a two-year college scholarship to one student at each winning principal’s school. At Village Oaks,
In collaboration with school leaders, Budzynski selected fifth-grade student Wilmer Gomez Domingo.

The choice was rooted in something every parent hopes to see in a child: ownership of learning. Budzynski said she has known Wilmer since kindergarten and has watched him consistently push himself.

“He’s one of those students who works hard and takes ownership of his learning,” Budzynski said. “Even the media specialist just said he came in to ask, ‘What else can I do? Can I have another book?’ So it’s that continual growth, looking at himself and saying, ‘What can I do better?’”

Wilmer’s response was simple and heartfelt. “I didn’t expect to win this because there are some other people, like a friend of mine, who is also like me,” he said. “I feel pretty good!”

This is the kind of school story families remember. Recognition for a principal becomes momentum for a student. A scholarship promise made in elementary school can shape how a child sees the future.

• It affirms hard work early.
• It gives a student a concrete college goal.
• It shows other children that effort gets noticed.
• It reminds families that opportunity can start young.

What can parents learn from this story?

Parents may not control school policy or statewide awards, but they do recognize the qualities that help children grow: encouragement, consistency, curiosity and high expectations. Wilmer’s story is a strong example of how those habits add up over time.

Families can reinforce the same mindset at home by praising effort, asking children what they want to improve and celebrating initiative. Progress often starts with small questions, like asking for another book or trying one more time.

There is also a bigger takeaway for Collier County families. When schools invest in leadership and student support, children benefit in visible ways. One award can spotlight an entire school community and remind parents that transformation is possible.

• Ask your child what they are proud of this week.
• Encourage them to set one small learning goal.
• Stay connected with your school principal and teachers.
• Look for local school resources and family opportunities.

To keep up with school-year planning, families can check the Collier County Public Schools calendar. For more programs and enrichment options, browse the Education Directory for Collier and Lee Counties and the latest CCPS Activities Guide.

What comes next for Bev Budzynski and Village Oaks?

Budzynski is now focused on opening Ave Maria Elementary School, but her impact at Village Oaks will continue. It lives in the data that earned statewide recognition, in the culture she helped build and in students like Wilmer, whose path to college now feels more real.

For Immokalee and greater Collier County, this moment is worth celebrating. It is a win for public education, a win for strong school leadership and a win for one child whose future just changed.

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His regular chair works for getting around school, home, and the community, but it’s not ideal for sports. He has  dreamed of owning a sports wheelchair with angled wheels for easier turns and faster speeds, and a lower back to allow him to recline further, giving him a better angle to shoot the ball. But those specialty chairs are expensive. His mother, Kristina Thomas, said they had been saving for years, but could not afford one. Then this fall, the staff at Manatee Elementary School in Naples decided to dedicate all the money raised during their annual Turkey Trot fundraiser to buy Justin the sports wheelchair. Usually, the event raises about $3,000, but the students and community rallied behind the cause and raised more than $9,100. 

“Yes, I was surprised,” Justin said. “I will be able to roll in it faster and play basketball. The wheels are slanted sideways so it is easier to turn and faster. I can move around better.”

Justin recently went to Clearwater to be fitted for the custom chair. He chose his favorite colors, blue and orange (University of Florida colors), for his new wheels. He added a bit of green to the chair’s name and chose colored spokes for the wheels.

He had another surprise waiting for him at Top End Sports in Clearwater. While he was there having his chair fitted, he met Paul Shulte, a co-captain of U.S. Paralympic basketball team who will also be in the 2028 Paralympics Games.

Schulte “even invited Justin to come to one of his clinics in the St. Pete area,” Kristina Thomas said.

Laurie Mearsheimer, principal at Manatee Elementary, was amazed at how much money was raised for Justin’s chair. 

“Absolutely, we were surprised, but we knew it would happen because we saw how everyone rallied around him,” Mearsheimer said.

The sports wheelchair costs $6,700. Since the school raised more than $9,100, there was money left over to make life easier for Justin and other students with disabilities at school. Manatee Elementary has a courtyard where students enjoy eating lunch, but the tables there are not accessible for all students.

“It is very limiting,” Mearsheimer said. “So now we are upgrading to new furniture that is handicap accessible.”

Mearsheimer said the community’s kindness has done more than get Justin new wheels; it has given him a new outlook. She described Justin as a very shy child in the past, but the recent support has changed that.

“This whole experience has made him come out of his shell,” she described. “He is a little more talkative. He got the attention and saw it was not so scary. He just couldn’t believe it was finally happening.” 

Justin was a cover kid on the March 2018 issue of Neapolitan Family Magazine.

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The Boys & Girls Club serves over 4,300 children and teens each year, offering academic support, leadership opportunities, and healthy activities in a welcoming environment.

What does free Boys & Girls Club membership mean for your child?

Waived membership fees mean your child can become a Club member without paying a joining fee. The organization’s goal is that no child misses out on the Club experience because of family finances.

As a parent, you have more flexibility. Instead of worrying about a membership bill, you can focus on how your child will use the time after school and in the summer. The Boys & Girls Club provides a safe place where kids and teens are welcomed, known by name, and encouraged to try new things.

The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County emphasizes:

• Safe, supervised spaces during critical after-school and summer hours
• Positive relationships with trained staff and mentors
• Enriching activities that build confidence and skills

In the words of CEO Paul Donahue, “Our services are vital to building a stronger future for Collier County families. By waiving membership fees, we are ensuring that every child, regardless of their family’s financial situation, has the opportunity to walk through our doors, feel welcomed, and benefit from the programs, mentorship, and support that help them learn, grow, and thrive.”

Where are Boys & Girls Club programs offered, and when do they run?

The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County operates locations in Naples and Immokalee. Families across Collier County can look to these sites for consistent after-school and summer options for children and teens.

Programs are designed for the times when kids need safe, structured activities the most: after the school day ends and during the long summer break. At these times, the Club creates a daily routine where youth can get support with learning, spend time with friends, and develop new interests.

Each site offers a safe, inclusive environment. Children and teens can explore different activities and find what fits them best. The focus is on helping them feel that they belong and that their ideas and dreams matter.

If you are juggling work, school schedules, and transportation, knowing your child has a dependable place to go can be a major relief. The Boys & Girls Club’s long-term commitment to Collier County families means they are planning for stability, not just a short-term program.

Who can benefit from these programs, and what do kids do there?

The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County serves children and teens, helping young people learn, lead, and thrive at every age. With over 4,300 youth participating annually, the programs are designed to support a wide range of interests and needs.

Programs focus on key areas that matter to families:

• Academic success and support for school progress
• Leadership and character-building opportunities
• Health and wellness habits for growing bodies and minds
• The arts, allowing kids to express themselves creatively
• Sports and physical activities for energy and teamwork

Inside the Club, youth can explore these areas in age-appropriate ways. Younger children might discover new hobbies, while teens may take on leadership roles or prepare for their future goals.

Because membership fees are waived, families who might have stayed away due to cost can now consider the Boys & Girls Club as a realistic option. The decision reflects a long-term investment in the success of local youth and the wider community.

Is Boys & Girls Club membership really free and what about other costs?

The goal is simple: remove financial barriers that might keep a child from accessing after-school and summer programming. The club wants every child in Collier County to have access to safe, supportive, and enriching experiences, regardless of a family’s financial circumstances.

While membership fees are waived, every family’s situation is different. If you have questions about any potential program-related costs or details, it is best to speak directly with Boys & Girls Club staff. They can explain current offerings and help you understand how the Club fits with your family’s needs.

If your family has never used community programs before, calling ahead can also give you a sense of what a typical day at the Boys & Girls Club looks like and how your child will be welcomed on their first visit.

How do you enroll your child and stay connected with Boys & Girls Club opportunities?

To learn more about enrolling your child, program offerings, or ways to support the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, you can:

• Visit the Boys & Girls Club website at www.bgccc.com
• Call the main number at 239-325-1700
• Ask about current after-school and summer options in Naples and Immokalee

The Boys & Girls Club has been serving local families since 1997, giving children and teens safe spaces, positive mentors, and opportunities to reach their full potential. If you are looking for ways to keep your child engaged beyond the school day, this long-standing presence in the community can be reassuring.

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What is Collier County Children’s Dental Day?

Collier County Children’s Dental Day is a one-day community event focused on pediatric oral health. Local dental professionals volunteer their time to provide basic screenings for children at no cost to families.

• Who: Children accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• What: Basic pediatric dental screenings
• When: Feb. 28, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Where: Nichols Community Health Center, 12655 Collier Blvd., Naples
• Cost: Free, no appointment required

The goal is to catch potential problems early, answer your questions, and connect families with ongoing dental care if needed.

Why are free children’s dental screenings important?

Oral health is closely tied to overall health, especially for growing kids. Cavities, misaligned teeth, and dental trauma can affect how children eat, sleep, and concentrate in school.

Pediatric dentistry focuses on preventing early decay, guiding proper growth, and building healthy habits that can last a lifetime. A quick screening can:

• Spot issues early before they become painful or expensive to treat
• Identify areas of concern such as visible cavities or injuries
• Reinforce daily habits like brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks

Events like this make it easier for families to access care, especially if you haven’t yet found a regular pediatric dentist.

Who is offering the free dental screenings?

DOH-Collier partners with several local organizations to make Collier County Children’s Dental Day possible. These partnerships help ensure children receive quality screenings and information from trained professionals, all in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.

How should families plan for the event?

You don’t need an appointment for the free children’s dental screenings in Collier County, but a little planning will make your visit smoother.

• Arrive between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. to allow time for check-in and the screening.
• Bring your child’s parent or legal guardian. A responsible adult must be present for each child.
• Prepare your questions. Think about any dental concerns you’ve noticed, such as tooth pain, sensitivity, or difficulty chewing.
• Plan for follow-up. If the dentist recommends additional care, ask how to schedule a full appointment.

For more details about the event, you can visit the Florida Department of Health in Collier County’s website.

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What is Tim Moshier’s focus as a school board member?

Since taking office, Moshier has centered his work on core responsibilities of the Collier County School Board: student success, school safety, and responsible budgeting. His “Back to the Basics” philosophy reflects his belief that schools should prioritize balanced budgets, maintain safe learning environments, and support strong academic programs that prepare students for the future.

• Balanced budgets that respect taxpayers while investing in classrooms and facilities.
• Safe schools where students can learn and grow in secure, supportive settings.
• Strong academics focused on foundational skills like reading and on long-term student achievement.
• Accountability to taxpayers through careful, transparent financial decisions.

What has he accomplished for Collier County Public Schools?

During Moshier’s tenure, Collier County Public Schools has achieved the lowest truancy rate in the State of Florida, an outcome he credits to collaboration with families, educators, and the judicial system. He regularly attends truancy court and stays involved in student support initiatives to help keep students on track.

Moshier has also supported the opening of two new schools, with another school in development in Ave Maria, helping the district manage enrollment growth responsibly while maintaining high standards. He played a role in lowering the capital millage rate, easing the tax burden on residents while still investing in school facilities.

On the student experience side, he has advocated for improvements such as a ticket booth at Immokalee High School, designed to support student athletics, school spirit, and community involvement.

How is he involved in local schools and literacy?

Beyond board meetings and policy decisions, Moshier has regularly attended sporting events, performances, after-school camps, and other school activities to stay connected with students, staff, and families.

He has also supported literacy initiatives, including programs such as Patriot Readers, and helped bring phonics-based reading programs back into schools. These efforts are intended to reinforce strong foundational reading skills, especially in the early grades, so students are better prepared for future academic success.

What is his background and connection to Collier County families?

A graduate of Northwood University, Moshier brings more than 30 years of experience in transportation and logistics, during which he developed expertise in budgeting, problem-solving, and organizational leadership.

Moshier has been married to his wife, Debbie, for 38 years and is a proud father and grandfather. Together, they believe in the importance of education, parental involvement, and preparing students for success both in school and in life.

What does his re-election campaign mean for District 5 families?

Moshier describes serving on the School Board as both an honor and a responsibility. “Serving on the School Board is my passion and one of the greatest honors of my life,” he said. “There is still important work ahead, and I am committed to continuing to put students first while keeping our schools focused on the fundamentals that matter most.”

As the 2026 election approaches, parents in District 5 can stay informed by following local education coverage, learning about each Collier County School Board candidate, and attending forums or community events. Understanding each candidate’s record on academics, safety, attendance, and spending helps parents make thoughtful choices for their children’s schools. Get updates and school board calendar here.

For more information about his campaign, visit www.timforcollier.com.

Additional Candidates

• Stephanie Nordin
• Michelle Albergo

The post Tim Moshier Announces Re-election Campaign for Collier County School Board District 5 appeared first on SWFL Family.

Nordin is a lifelong Collier County resident, public school graduate, and mother of four who brings extensive, hands-on experience in education, community leadership, and school governance to the race. She is the founder of Autism Collier, a nonprofit organization created to support families navigating education and related services, and the co-founder of Autism Collier Charter School, developed in collaboration with educators, district leadership, and state partners.

Through this work, Nordin has spent years working directly with families, teachers, administrators, and policymakers. She has served on advisory councils and committees that inform school district decision-making, giving her firsthand experience with school governance, budgeting, accountability, and policy development.

“I’m running because I believe our school board needs leaders who are prepared, collaborative, and grounded in real experience,” Nordin said. “Strong schools require more than good intentions; they require thoughtful leadership, responsible decision-making, and a deep understanding of how policies impact students, families, and educators.”

Nordin’s campaign focuses on student success, strong family partnerships, support for educators and staff, responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, collaboration, and expanding opportunity and innovation across Collier County schools.

The kickoff event drew broad support from elected officials and community leaders across Collier County, underscoring early momentum behind Nordin’s candidacy. Those in attendance included Collier County School Board Member Tim Moshier; former Collier County School Board Chair Jen Mitchell; Collier County Property Appraiser Vickie Downs; Everglades City Councilman Mike McComas; Collier County Commissioners Burt Saunders and Rick LoCastro; and Marco Island City Council Members Tamara Goehler and Deb Henry, along with numerous educators, parents, advocates, and community leaders from across the county. Nordin has also earned early support from Florida State Representative Meg Weinberger, and additional endorsements from elected officials and community leaders are expected in the coming weeks.

Additional Candidates

• Michelle Albergo
• Tim Moshier

The post Stephanie Nordin Launches Campaign for Collier County School Board, District 1 appeared first on SWFL Family.

What is the Sunshine State Scholars program?

Established in 1997, the Sunshine State Scholars program recognizes Florida’s top 11th-grade students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Each school district may nominate a limited number of students based on enrollment, and Collier County Public Schools receives two allocations each year.

To be considered, students must meet a rigorous set of criteria. Scholars maintain a high GPA, complete advanced coursework, and demonstrate a clear interest in a STEM-related field. The Sunshine State Scholars Collier County 2026 honorees reflect how CCPS encourages students to challenge themselves academically while exploring future STEM pathways.

How does CCPS select its Sunshine State Scholars?

Within Collier County, the nomination process begins at each high school. Every CCPS high school may nominate up to five qualified students who meet the program’s academic and STEM-focused requirements.

From there, candidates participate in an extensive essay and interview process. This step allows students to share their stories, explain their goals, and show how STEM has shaped their lives.

• Maintain a strong GPA throughout high school.
• Complete advanced and honors-level STEM coursework.
• Show sustained interest in a STEM-related field.
• Express their goals through essays and interviews.

This year, Max and Sarah distinguished themselves not only through outstanding academics, but also through a clear, heartfelt passion for their areas of study.

Meet Maximus “Max” Bogert of Palmetto Ridge High School

Max Bogert hopes to pursue molecular and cellular biology in college and eventually attend medical school. His long-term goal is to become a gastrointestinal pathologist, a field that combines deep scientific knowledge with caring for patients.

For Max, the appeal of STEM is the sheer breadth of what he can explore and learn.

“With STEM, there are so many different aspects, so many different fields, so many different places of study,” Max said. “There is so much within one single field that you can learn about, and I just want to learn it all!”

Being named one of the Sunshine State Scholars Collier County 2026 honorees gives Max the chance to share that enthusiasm with educators and professionals from across Florida.

Meet Sarah Dabees of Aubrey Rogers High School

Sarah Dabees is passionate about sustainable engineering and environmental research. A longtime competitor at state-level science fairs, she finds inspiration in both presenting her work and learning from other students’ projects.

“I love helping the community, and I want to continue my research on environmental science and environmental engineering to build a more sustainable future,” she said. “Not only do I get to present my own research and findings … but I also get to see what everybody else has been doing.”

Her dedication to environmental science and engineering shows how CCPS students can use STEM to address real-world challenges. Sarah’s journey highlights the power of curiosity, persistence, and using science to create positive change.

What happens at the Sunshine State Scholars conference?

As Sunshine State Scholars, Max and Sarah are invited to attend the statewide conference alongside other high-achieving juniors from across Florida. There, they will be recognized for their accomplishments and connect with representatives from the state’s colleges and universities.

During the event, Scholars explore STEM programs of study and potential internship opportunities, learning more about the paths that can lead from high school classrooms and labs to future careers. It is also a chance to see how their hard work in Collier County fits into the larger picture of STEM education statewide.

Finding community in STEM

For Sarah, the highlight of the Sunshine State Scholars experience is the sense of community that forms when students with similar interests come together.

“When we all come together with our common interests, there’s a lot more that we can get done together,” she said.

Max agrees and feels proud to represent CCPS at the state level.

“Getting to showcase my passion on the district level and represent our district at the state conference is something I am extremely proud of and happy about,” he shared.

For families in Collier and Lee Counties, their words are a reminder that STEM can be as much about collaboration and connection as it is about equations, experiments, and research projects.

Celebrating CCPS STEM success

The Sunshine State Scholars Collier County 2026 selections shine a spotlight on the STEM opportunities available within Collier County Public Schools. From advanced coursework to science fairs and leadership experiences, students like Max and Sarah are showing what is possible when talent meets support at home and at school.

If your teen is drawn to science, technology, engineering, or math, look for STEM-focused activities, clubs, and classes at their CCPS school and throughout the community. You can also explore district-wide programs and enrichment opportunities through the CCPS activities guide and related education coverage on Neapolitan Family.

Celebrating students like Max and Sarah is a meaningful way to recognize today’s achievements while encouraging tomorrow’s innovators.

The post Sunshine State Scholars Collier County 2026: Meet CCPS Rising Stars appeared first on SWFL Family.

Stuffed Animal Drive Brings Smiles

Little Cubs is a preschool where high school students in child care classes help teach and care for young children. “We thought it would be really cool to give the kids a comfort animal,” Jayden said. “I know they are starting to grow up, and sometimes it can be hard. It just helps kids smile and makes them happy.”

From Idea to Action in Naples

Inspired at a student council leadership conference, Gabe and Jayden began collecting stuffed animals before Thanksgiving. Within weeks, they had gathered about 50 donations, with more still coming. Their next goal is to donate additional toys to Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee.

While some donations came from students, most were contributed by generous Naples businesses like State Farm and the Pop Toy Co.

Fostering a Culture of Giving

“It is great that they are making a difference at this age, and they can continue to grow from that,” said Justin Rodriguez, student government advisor at PRHS. “It is rewarding that they are sharing what they learned at the leadership conference.”

PRHS Principal Tobin Walcott added that Gabe and Jayden are helping shift the school culture toward generosity and community engagement. “These two young men are what Palmetto Ridge is about. They support their community. They support their fellow students.”

Expanding Impact Across Collier County

The students also led a project to support a local child at Christmas, collecting donations like clothes, games, and a bicycle. In another initiative, they gathered supplies for a women’s shelter.

Their leadership helped grow the PRHS student government from 20 to 110 members in just one year. “We promoted it a lot,” said Gabe. “I told people we would change everything: the games and the spirit of the school.”

Gabe, a senior president, and Jayden, a junior vice president, also play sports like baseball and pickleball, but giving back remains their top priority.

“Putting a smile on other people’s faces, that is what drives all of us,” Gabe said. “We have spirit within ourselves to help people who need it.”

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