Collier County Public Schools is set to resume classes on Monday, marking a return to routine after the disruptive passage of Hurricane Milton. The district’s readiness, confirmed by operational power at all sites, offers a reassuring signal to parents and students alike. As schools prepare to reopen, after-school activities and district leases will also reinitiate, allowing families to step back into their normal schedules.
In a thoughtful response to the hurricane’s impact, the district announced a shift in the academic calendar. The end of the first quarter will now take place a week later, adjusting the Teacher Planning Day from Oct. 18 to Oct. 25. While students will be in school on Oct. 18, they will enjoy a break from classes on the rescheduled Teacher Planning Day.
In a carefully crafted statement, the district acknowledged the diverse challenges faced by families in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton:
“As our community continues to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Milton, we understand every family has unique circumstances and concerns. If you feel it is in the best interest of your child(ren) to stay home, we fully respect your decision. We kindly ask that you communicate with your child(ren)’s school to validate the absence. This will ensure we maintain clear lines of communication.”
To comply with the educational mandates set by the Florida Department of Education, CCPS is thoughtfully reviewing its Academic Calendar concerning potential Hurricane Make-Up Days. Further adjustments will be communicated following deliberation by the School Board. This willingness to adapt reflects a broader understanding of the community’s needs and the complexities that arise during such events.
Parents are encouraged to stay informed by regularly checking their emails, the district website, and various social media channels for updates. As families navigate the aftermath of the storm, such communication will foster a sense of unity and resilience.
In a local tidbit, did you know that Collier County is home to one of the largest unbroken stretches of mangrove forests in the United States? This natural infrastructure plays a pivotal role in protecting the area from storm surges, blending nature’s beauty with practical safety.
Resilience, adaptation, and a focus on community define the path forward. As students gear up to return to their classrooms, there is a collective understanding that education goes beyond academics—it’s about nurturing the heart and spirit of the community.
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