COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli, the newly appointed Superintendent of Collier County Public Schools, is eager to continue to make her mark on the education system. With an array of new programs and policies, she aims to create a better learning environment for both students and staff before the start of the 2023 school year on August 10.

“Ultimately what they should look for is a highly engaged faculty. Highly engaged administrators with as much support from the district as they possibly need. Truly based on their attendance today, you can see we have a highly engaged community,” said Dr. Ricciardelli when asked what students should expect on day one. 

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli selected as Superintendent of Collier County Schools

ABC7 asked Dr. Ricciardelli what new policies she believes the community should be aware of:

Report Cards

“In elementary schools, parents are getting ready to see a different report card. Easier to understand…sort of a back-to-basics report card. Teachers are really excited about it,” Dr. Ricciardelli stated.

Phonics

“We are bringing in a very structured, specific phonics program for kids in K-1,2,” she added, emphasizing the importance of the new phonics program for early language development.

Reading

“We will be doing some additional curriculum for those in secondary who are having trouble with reading,” Dr. Ricciardelli explained, showcasing her commitment to supporting struggling students.

Dr. Ricciardelli also addressed her plan to take on new controversial educational and curriculum-based Florida laws, including Senate Bill 1718 (immigration reform), The Parental Rights in Education Bill (sexuality, gender) and restrictions on A.P. African American History (race), as well as the affordable housing crisis.

Addressing the issue of affordable housing for students and teachers first, Dr. Ricciardelli stated firmly, “64% of our students come from households who are economically disadvantaged. You’d never know that when you look at our test scores. That shows you we provide the same resources to every kid and every building teacher. There’s no haves or have-nots in our buildings.”

Regarding curriculum adjustments, “At the end of the day, our teachers, whatever subject they teach, they reach the standards the state has given us. They don’t teach outside of those standards; there’s not enough time to teach outside of those standards,” said Dr. Ricciardelli, emphasizing the importance of adhering to state standards while ensuring students receive a comprehensive education.

“I’m not going to be different than I’ve always been. Students first, teachers first, administrators first. That’s what we are here to do,” she stated, highlighting her dedication to putting the needs of students and educators at the forefront of her decisions.

Dr. Ricciardelli has a long history in Collier County Public Schools, as a student, teacher, administrator and now superintendent.

“How did I end up here? I’ll never know. I guess it’s just coming in and putting in the work every day,” she expressed as she thought about her deep connection to the district.

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“I want kids to know they can do anything they want; they just have to do it and hold their hand up. We will give them every opportunity,” said Dr. Ricciardelli, encouraging the students with her motivational words.

As she embarks on her new journey as Superintendent, Dr. Ricciardelli remains dedicated to creating a thriving educational environment. Her vision for the district revolves around providing every student with the tools they need to succeed.

“This is such an amazing place. Such an amazing district. Who wouldn’t want to come here? Our education system brings people to Collier County, and I want that to continue,” said Dr. Ricciardelli, displaying her passion for the community and its educational development.

The first day of school is August 10.

Now that Dr. Ricciardelli is the superintendent full-time, she said she plans on using the extra time to visit local schools and speak with faculty, staff and students to find out what they are looking for in a leader.