What a School Year It Has Been!
The school year has officially come to an end, and what an extraordinary journey it's been! Throughout our District, students, teachers, staff, and families have achieved remarkable milestones together—and we're ending this year with tremendous momentum.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Over the past few weeks, we’ve celebrated more than 6,000 graduates from our 15 high schools. These students are nothing short of remarkable. They’ve led the way in academics, athletics, the arts, JROTC, clubs, and community service—demonstrating passion, determination, and heart every step of the way. Graduates are heading to college or trade school, joining the workforce, enlisting in the military, or launching their own businesses. Collectively, they’ve earned over $70 million in scholarships. That figure speaks volumes—but it’s their character, leadership, and drive that leave the greatest impression. As Dr. Seuss once wrote, “You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!” And these students truly are.
The success of our graduates is just one chapter in a much bigger story. Across the District, this year has been filled with high points that showcase the strength of our students, staff, and schools. Students earned top honors at the State Science and Engineering Fair and the Edison Awards AI Challenge. We had state champions in wrestling, weightlifting, and track and field, along with strong state title runs in baseball and soccer. Our arts programs shone with awards in visual art, film and TV production, music, and drama. JROTC cadets excelled in national marksmanship and drill competitions. We also proudly celebrated students committing to military service at our annual signing ceremony—their leadership and sense of duty speak volumes. Many of our schools and teachers were honored with Marzano High Reliability certification, recognizing excellence in teaching and learning.
We also made big strides in building for the future to support our growing community. Bonita Springs Elementary and Cypress Lake Middle are being rebuilt. Bayshore Elementary and James Stephens Elementary are expanding into K–8 schools, and Hector A. Cafferata Jr. in Cape Coral—destroyed during Hurricane Ian—is being rebuilt and expanded as a new K–8. These projects support students and families while managing Lee County’s continued growth.
This year also marked the launch of our Safe Start Initiative, designed to address a major concern: the nearly 8,000 students arriving late to school by bus each day. By adjusting start times and transportation logistics, we’re not only improving punctuality—we’re adding valuable instructional time back into the school day to help boost academic success.
We continued to invest in school safety through vital security upgrades funded by state appropriations, thanks to the support of Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature.
Workforce education also saw major investment this year. Cape Coral Technical College is physically expanding and adding six high-demand programs. We’ve also brought on an Associate Superintendent for Career and Technical Education to strengthen our career pathways and ensure students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in today’s workforce.
Finally, as part of our commitment to community engagement, School Board Members and Dr. Carlin held district town halls where families could hear updates, ask questions, and offer feedback—conversations that help shape a school system that reflects our community’s values.
As we wrap up the school year, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. To our students, teachers, staff, and families—your dedication and belief in what’s possible mean everything. Wishing you a safe, happy, and well-earned summer break!
Respectfully submitted,
Sam Fisher
School Board Chair and Member, District 1
The content and any opinions expressed in this article are solely the author's and do not necessarily reflect the facts, opinions, and beliefs of the Lee County School Board or its affiliates.