The Phoenix Program Naples

This school is a part of Collier County School District

Collier County Public Schools stands as a Solid/Stable community institution, characterized by exceptional community trust and robust long-term financial planning. The district achieved a historic milestone in the November 2024 elections when voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal of its tax-neutral funding referendum with nearly 85 percent support, providing over 60 million dollars annually in flexible operating funds to support teacher salaries. This financial flexibility is further bolstered by the district's projection to become completely debt-free in 2026. Under the steady leadership of Superintendent Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli, a veteran local educator appointed in 2023, the district has managed rapid enrollment growth by opening new campuses, including Bear Creek Elementary and Ave Maria Elementary. Flagship campuses like Gulf Coast High School and Barron Collier High School continue to anchor the district's strong academic reputation. While the district faces a projected 42.2 million dollar budget deficit for the 2025-2026 school year, which is currently balanced using reserves, and recently navigated a tense, eight-month labor dispute with the teacher's union, its overall operational health and immense voter backing signal a highly resilient school system.