2021 Education Guide
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
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Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK, Kindergarten, & After School Programs K-5th GRADE
Accredited and Gold Seal Center
Private School Registered with the FL Department of Education
Asthma Friendly Platinum Level Child Care Center
Family Friendly Business Award Recipient
Nationally Recognized Breastfeeding Friendly Childcare Center & Gold Level Employer
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Weekly Yoga, Music, Piano, Sports, Dance, Zumba, Mindfulness, Library, and Foreign Language & Sign Language Classes Monthly field trips to destinations such as the Conservancy, Children’s Museum, Artis Naples, Barnes & Noble, Botanical Gardens, Naples Zoo Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE
Precious Cargo Academy 5200 Crayton Road, Naples, FL 34103 WEBSITE: PreciousCargoAcademy.org
EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com
A Mission of Naples United Church of Christ 2
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Find Us on Facebook!
@PCANaples
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Education Directory CHILD’S PATH 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples • 239-353-4144 777 Mooring Line Dr., Naples • 239-980-9021 701 Immokalee Dr., Immokalee • 239-377-1167 2925 Titan Way, Naples • 239-377-1750 www.ChildsPath.org Child’s Path creates brighter futures for Collier County children by providing partial scholarships for high-quality early learning and care. We serve more than 300 children, ages 1 to 5, every year through four early learning centers, following the Reggio Emilia approach of self-directed, experiential learning. We provide scholarship assistance to approximately 75% of the children enrolled, who come from high-risk or underserved families. High-quality early education changes the entire trajectory of a child’s life and helps prepare them for academic and lifelong success. We believe every child deserves access to high-quality early learning and a bright start in life. CHILDREN’S MONTESSORI 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 239-593-6668 • www.ChildMont.com Children’s Montessori School is a private early childhood preschool program. Children learn by exploring and discovering concepts with a hands-on approach using manipulative equipment and instruction
that also encourages students to progress at their own pace. The Montessori Method develops the whole child, not just intellectual faculties but also powers of deliberation, initiative, and independent choice. The school was founded in 1998 and offers classes for children ages 12 months through kindergarten with VPK integrated into the Extended Primary program. The full school hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with various schedules available. COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF NAPLES 13275 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-597-7575 • www.CommunitySchoolNaples.org Community School of Naples, an independent, PreK-12 college preparatory day school, was launched in 1982 by a group of parents seeking to establish a private school close to home. Today CSN has more than 800 students and a $40 million, 77-acre campus with 21 buildings, including athletics fields and swimming pool. CSN offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on academic rigor; opportunities in athletics and arts, both fine and performing; and character development. These elements ensure that each student experiences a challenging education only an independent, college preparatory school can provide. One hundred percent of CSN graduates attend four-year colleges and universities, with many attending our nation’s most selective and highly competitive schools.
Tracey Ansteth Albert
TUTORING Former CCPS Teacher for 10 Years Golden Apple Award Recipient
239-572-8643 TA1019@aol.com
Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Organizational Skills, and Homework Assistance
• Grades K-3 • Flexible hours • Clean, calm, positive environment NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
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COVENANT CHURCH MOM’S MORNING OUT 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples • 239-597-3464 https://CovenantNaples.com/moms-morning-out Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out is a ministry for both children and parents/guardians. Our purpose is to provide a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break. Daily activities for the children are based around a theme. Using that theme, the children will experience story time (both literature and Bible), outdoor play and free play, and art and music. For ages 2-4 (as of Aug. 1).
The
Ga rd e n S c hool o f Napl e s
M o n te s s o r i Ear ly Ed u c ati o n
An environmentally-conscious academic preschool program for children aged 2-6.
Accepting applications for enrollment now!
www.gardenschoolnaples.com
info@gardenschoolnaples.com • (239) 424-9084 • 6051 bayshore drive, naples
FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY 3000 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples 239-597-2233, ext. 300 • www.fbalions.org For 24 years, First Baptist Academy has served our region as a premiere Christ-centered college preparatory school, educating nearly 700 students annually from preschool through high school. With a uniquely personal approach to education, students are challenged daily to progress in their knowledge, talents, and faith. Our talented students are achieving beyond the classroom as well. Students compete and excel in a full range of athletic opportunities, with individual and team sports. Our fine arts programs are strong and thriving in the areas of art, theater, and vocal and instrumental music. That’s all a part of the unparalleled opportunities our FBA Lions have. Whether you’re new to the area or making a change during the school year, we welcome you to tour our campus, meet our staff and students, and ask any questions you have. THE GARDEN SCHOOL OF NAPLES 6051 Bayshore Dr., Naples 239-424-9084 • www.GardenSchoolNaples.com
NACS
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Naples Adventist Christian School
We are a K-8th grade school centrally located in Naples. We are proud to have a committed staff teaching a nationally certified and approved curriculum in a Christ-filled environment. We accept Step Up For Students and Florida Pride scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!
Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online. 2629 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, FL 34104 239-261-NACS (6227) • nacs@flcoe.org www.NaplesACS.org
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The Garden School of Naples offers a world-class Montessori environment for children ages 2-6 years, one that nurtures independence and promotes physical, social, and emotional well-being, while creating space for intellectual and academic excellence, and supporting a wide range of creative and artistic endeavors. Our strong focus on modern environmental education introduces compassion, connectedness, good citizenship, and conscientious stewardship of the earth as key elements of early childhood development. We offer both a morning and full-day academic preschool and kindergarten program certified by the American Montessori Society. GREATER NAPLES YMCA EARLY EDUCATION CENTER 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples 239-963-3765 • https://GreaterNaplesYMCA.org At the Greater Naples YMCA Early Education Center, we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success. Our use of the Creative Curriculum supports learning through play and developmentally appropriate activities that foster social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development. We provide quality and affordable full-day care and education for children ages 3 months to 5 years. NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
MASON CLASSICAL ACADEMY 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 239-227-2838 • https://MasonAcademy.com Mason Classical Academy is a K-12 tuition-free school offering a rigorous academic curriculum that is built on two fundamental beliefs: instruction in virtue and knowledge is necessary to live the good life; and that a free society requires its members to be selfgoverning, knowledgeable citizens of virtue. Primary source texts and the Great Books drive humanities instruction. Cultivation of virtue and self-governance are taught explicitly through the curriculum and in the spirit of the Western heritage. The Socratic method is implemented throughout all classrooms and by way of traditional pedagogy. A 20–page senior thesis on what is essential to living the good life, delivered and defended in front of an audience of faculty and peers, is a graduation requirement.
MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF NAPLES 2655 Northbrooke Dr., Naples 239-597-2255 • www.NaplesMontessori.org Montessori Academy of Naples offers comprehensive Montessori programs for students ages 8 weeks to 15 years old. The proven Montessori method is evident in the carefully prepared, realitybased environments that foster independence and self-discipline and encourage young hands and minds to engage, experiment, and explore. School snacks and lunches include farm-fresh fruits and vegetables courtesy of the school’s student-run organic produce co-op. School hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., including early arrival and after-school programs. VPK and summer programs also are available. THE MOORINGS PRESBYTERIAN PRESCHOOL 791 Harbour Dr., Naples 239-649-1811 www.MooringsPreschool.org Moorings Presbyterian Preschool was founded in 1978. We offer classes for ages 2 through VPK. Our maximum enrollment is 100 students, which provides a 10:1 student/teacher ratio. Our mission is to provide an affordable, high-quality academic education in a Christian environment of acceptance, love, and guidance. We accomplish this through individualized instruction and by creating an environment of understanding and compassion to help each child feel welcomed and successful. We welcome children and families of all ethnic, racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
Full & Part Time Programs 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Extended Hours Available NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER VPK
239-593-6668 www.childmont.com 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr.
Naples, FL 34119 childmont101@gmail.com (Across from Super Target)
little hands...BIG achievements
Toddlers 12 - 36 mos Primary 3 yrs to Kinder VPK 4/5 yrs NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
(239) 593-6668 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. www.childmont.com Naples, FL 34119 License # C20CO0018 License # C20CO0018 neafamily.com
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LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL 868 94th Ave. N., Naples 239-597-5064 • www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info Little People’s School was founded over 35 years ago by certified elementary teachers dedicated to the education of young children. We believe that children learn best when involved physically and intellectually in their learning environment. Students enjoy a small child-to-teacher ratio, which allows children to have the optimal opportunity to learn basic concepts in math and literacy through age-appropriate programs of art, science, literature, music, social studies, character development, and, of course, play. Part-time, full-time, and VPK programs are available.
NAPLES ADVENTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2629 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 239-261-6227 www.NaplesACS.org
ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2730 53rd Terrace S.W., Naples 239-455-2262 www.SaintElizabethSeton.com
Naples Adventist Christian School a K-8th grade school centrally located in Naples. We are proud to have a committed staff teaching a nationally certified and approved curriculum in a Christ-filled environment. We accept Step Up For Students and Florida Pride scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!
St. Elizabeth Seton offers challenging academics as well as spiritual, physical, and social formation for students in pre-K3 to grade 8. Since 1981, the goal of our professional and dedicated faculty and staff is to nurture the development of a complete, well-rounded child in a safe, family atmosphere. We emphasize high academic standards, moral values, and the integration of the Catholic Christian philosophy in all aspects of school life. Through our curriculum and extracurricular opportunities, service projects, and faith traditions, all students are encouraged to achieve their fullest potential and understand the relevance of Catholic values in their daily lives.
PRECIOUS CARGO ACADEMY 5200 Crayton Rd., Naples 239-261-7442 www.PreciousCargoAcademy.org
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Precious Cargo Academy sees early childhood education as the foundation for lifelong learning. We strive to establish opportunities for play, cognitive development, laughter, and promoting social-emotional growth. Through extensive research and adoption of the Creative Curriculum, we offer children the right balance of skills, intellect, and global awareness. We embrace the importance of balancing academics with children’s individual needs, with the goal of teaching the whole child. Precious Cargo is an inclusive school welcoming all families. Teachers are supported by an administration passionate about education. SAINT ANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL 542 Eighth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-4110 www.StAnn.net Since 1956, Saint Ann School has provided excellence in education of spirit, mind, and body to our students in PK3-grade 8, from our academic curriculum to our athletic programs to our arts programs, in which students participate fully. The fundamental purpose of Saint Ann School is to promote the teachings of the Catholic Church and to instill in its students a profound and personal spirituality. The school provides a unique setting where spiritual, academic, emotional, social, and physical growth is realized. 6
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TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL 4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 239-455-3227 www.TempleShalomPreschoolNaples.org Temple Shalom Preschool is recognized as a high-quality program in Naples. We have been approved by Florida SouthWestern’s Early Childhood Department as an appropriate setting for their pre-service teacher training. We offer classes for ages 2-4, as well as a Baby and Me class for babies and toddlers. Our multi-faceted curriculum is based on faith values, which offer children a belief system and ethical guidance. Our trained and credentialed teaching staff provides a nurturing environment where each child may flourish and grow to meet his or her full potential. Included in the program are enrichment classes in science and technology, fitness and yoga, storytelling, music and movement, and creative visual arts. TRACEY ANSTETH ALBERT TUTORING 239-572-8643 TA1019@aol.com I offer tutoring for children in grades K-3 in reading, language arts, social studies, math, organizational skills, as well as homework assistance in a clean, calm, and positive environment. Flexible hours. NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
Teacher of the Month
Kara Schaps
Each month, Neapolitan Family honors one of the hard-working teachers of Collier and Lee counties. Our December winner received a sunset cruise from Pure Florida, teaching supplies from Marco Office Supply, and tickets to “Footloose” from The Naples Players. Kara Schaps teaches third grade at Veterans Memorial Elementary in Naples. Here’s an excerpt from her nomination: “Mrs. Schaps has been a phenomenal virtual teacher. She goes above and beyond to give her students a ‘normal’ school day. When there was a tech outage across the district early in the year, she got in her car and drove the parking lot until she had enough bars for her phone to be a hotspot and continue teaching.” Why did you choose teaching? I have always wanted to be a teacher and played ‘school’ with my friends since I can remember. I used Vis-à-Vis markers on my bedroom windows for a chalkboard and would read or deliver ‘lessons’ to friends, pets, or stuffed animals. Anything that couldn’t escape! I also remember having
Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break
Currently Enrolling – Register Today!! One-, Two-, and Three-Day Options Available Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Ages 2-4 years by Aug. 1
6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL
239.597.3464
C H U R C H o f N A P L E S | P CA
For more information, email momsmorningout@covenantnaples.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
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Naples Pediatric Dentistry
teacher editions and old student textbooks that family friends would give me, knowing that I loved playing school. What is your favorite thing about teaching third grade? It’s a great age! The students are becoming more and more independent. Watching them grow both academically and socially has been a wonderful experience. I love how they thrive in the structure provided and won’t let you forget one little thing. They hang on every single word you speak. I really enjoy listening and observing when they participate in peer teaching. They learn so much from each other when sharing or thinking aloud. How did you adapt to teaching in a pandemic? I didn’t have time to think about it. I just went into ‘adapt mode’! I woke up one morning and thought, “Well, I guess I need to rearrange my house so my two children can successfully learn from home and I can teach from home at the same time.” The last quarter of the 2019-20 school year was the adapting period. This year feels like the new normal period. I learned a lot from teaching during that fourth quarter; recording read-alouds and instructional videos in between siblings fighting or a dog barking, spending countless hours each day trying to make our virtual platform more user friendly, unpredictable class virtual meetings – but most importantly how to help students and their families in this very different, difficult, stressful, and strange time. I think the biggest adaptation I had to make was … you just have to laugh because we can’t control it. There is so much we can’t control right now, internet outages, power outages, computer failure, etc. My favorite lines from virtual teaching that I can hear in my sleep: “You’re glitching,” “You have a yellow triangle,” “Mrs. Schaps, you’re muted” (my favorite because it happens daily!), and “Mrs. Schaps, you’re upside down” (my document camera’s default for some reason). The adapting wasn’t easy, but it has been worth it. Tell us about your family. I have been married to my husband, Andy, (born and raised in Naples) for 15 years. We have been friends since high school. We have two children: Devin (13) is in eighth grade, and Lexi (12) is in sixth grade at North Naples Middle School. We also have a beautiful and loving rescue dog named Penny Lane. What is your advice for parents when they start the school year with your class, pandemic or otherwise? Communication is key to a successful school year. I want parents to call, email, or instant message me with any questions or concerns as soon as they come up. My co-teacher and I post pictures, assignments, reminders, student shout-outs, etc. daily on our class webpage. It’s important for families to know what we are learning in the classroom and how they can support their child at home.
New ! Feature
School Leadership Spotlight
In the following pages, you will meet the women and men in charge of several preschools, private schools, and charter schools in Southwest Florida. Learn more about these heads of school, principals, and directors, as well as the schools they lead.
Meet the Principal
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Principal Maria Niebuhr, M.Ed. St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, located in the heart of Naples, serves students in Grades PK3-8 from all backgrounds and faiths. The school was founded in 1981 in honor of the first American-born saint, in keeping with her spiritual gifts of courage, determination, hard work, faith, and love. This same spirit thrives in our classrooms. We are small enough that teachers know all the students and families, but large enough to offer a full range of academic rigor and extracurricular experiences such as a music and band program, competitive athletics, 1:1 iPad program, Spanish, art, STREAM club, robotics, master gardening, and middle school electives including theater and life skills. We also are Blue Zones certified. I welcome you to visit www. SaintElizabethSeton.com or call 239455-2262. I’ll be happy to give you a tour of our special school, where academic excellence, faith, values, and community come to life each day!
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Meet the Head of School
Dr. David Watson was appointed to Head of School at Community School of Naples in 2013. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, he has lived in the United States since 2000 and is now a dual U.S./U.K. national. Dr. Watson holds degrees from universities in three different European countries. He has been involved in independent education for more than 30 years in eight different countries. Dr. Watson took up his first school Headship in 1995. He has successfully led prestigious independent schools ever since. Dr. Watson is a former Chairman of the Board of the Council of International Schools in the Americas. He also served as Treasurer to the Board of the Council of International Schools. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Florida Council of Independent Schools. In addition, Dr. Watson has chaired over a dozen school accreditation teams, served in leadership capacities on regional associations, and has published numerous articles on aspects of school leadership. He is dedicated to CSN’s mission, which “empowers students to realize their own potential as engaged learners and responsible global citizens.”
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Meet the Head of School
Dear Southwest Florida Community,
As the Village School of Naples advances past a successful twenty-year anniversary of serving as Naples’ premier educational institution, we have much to look forward to in the coming years as a school and educational community. Driven by a strategic five year plan with the institution’s mission, vision and core values at the forefront, The Village School is excited to announce a series of capital improvements that will assist in developing the institution to accommodate enrollment growth and continued academic success. Beginning with an extensive redevelopment of additional learning spaces in the Upper School, to a reimagined learning approach in the arly Childhood ducation program, and the evolution of a full-service outdoor athletics facility, we believe that there hasn’t been a better time than the present to join the community at The Village School and become nights for Life.
With gratitude,
Dennis Chapman, ead of School
The Village School of Naples 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Naples, FL 34109 | 239-593-7686 www.villageschoolnaples.org
The Village School provides an
EMPOWERS and INSPIRES students to think and CREATE solutions to challenges in
environment that
an ever-changing world.
Are you ready to become a Knight for Life?
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
About Us
www.childspath.org
Big Changes, Bigger Impact for Child’s Path Early Learning Centers
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s the age-old saying goes, nothing is more constant than change—and that has never been more evident than in 2020. COVID-19 has impacted us all in some way, requiring big changes that continue today. After closing all centers on March 13, 2020, we acted quickly to reopen our Santa Barbara location two weeks later, following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and offering enrollment opportunities to all children we serve. Frontline workers and first responders could return to work, knowing their children were safe and learning in a classroom environment. Within two months, we reopened our Moorings center, and within five months our Golden Gate High School and Immokalee High School centers reopened their doors as well. During the pandemic, our organization underwent significant change that even went beyond health and safety procedures. After operating as Collier Child Care Resources for 12 years, the board of directors changed the name to Child’s Path in July 2020. Previously serving as director of education, I took the helm as the new executive director two months later. We continue to follow CDC guidelines as we have from the start, including daily health screenings and temperature checks. We removed all rugs and softsurface items from classrooms to ensure all areas can be disinfected frequently and purchased foggers to sanitize the centers nightly. We have hand-washing stations and limit the number of people in our centers as well. Children ages 4 and up at our Moorings and Santa Barbara locations wear masks, while ages 3 and up wear masks at our centers located in the Collier County Public School District. Our staff wear masks at all times, except outside and on the playground, where all equipment is sanitized between play times. And at the end of each and every day, we believe these changes will lead to a much bigger positive impact on our children and community. Together, we find ways to adapt and pivot, but we never lose sight of our mission to create a brighter path for our children’s future. We hope you will join us. Heather Singleton, Executive Director, Child’s Path
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
Child’s Path creates brighter futures for Collier County children and families by providing partial scholarships for high-quality and affordable early learning and care. We serve more than 300 children, ages 1 to 5, every year through four early learning centers, which follow the Reggio Emilia approach of self-directed, experiential learning. We provide scholarship assistance to approximately 75% of the children enrolled, who come from high-risk or underserved families. High-quality early education changes the entire trajectory of a child’s life and helps prepare them for academic and lifelong success. We believe every child deserves access to high-quality early learning and a bright start in life. Jodi Garrett, Center Director Child’s Path - Santa Barbara jodig@childspath.org 239.353.4144 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples Ages: 1 to 5 years old Hours: Year-round, 7 a.m. -5:30 p.m.
Jamie Eskridge, Center Director Child’s Path - Moorings jamiee@childspath.org 239.980.9021 777 Mooring Line Dr., Naples (inside Emmanuel Lutheran Church) Ages: 1 to 5 years old Hours: 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Angela Anderson, Center Director Child’s Path - Immokalee High School angelaa@childspath.org 239.377.1167 701 Immokalee Dr., Immokalee (Inside Immokalee High School) Ages: 2 weeks to 5 years old Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Extended hours: 6:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Ivette Aponte-Torres, Center Director Child’s Path - Golden Gate High School ivettea@childspath.org 239.377.1750 2925 Titan Way, Naples (inside Golden Gate High School) Ages: 2 weeks to 5 years old Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Extended hours: 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Part-time: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) neafamily.com
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Meet the Directors
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Meet the Principal
John DeMasi is the Principal of Mason Classical Academy, a high-performing charter school in Naples, Florida, that delivers a classical education to 900 students in grades K-12. Mr. DeMasi is a student of history, graduated from Ave Maria University, and was raised alongside 13 siblings in New Hampshire. As a young man, it was important to him that he receive a classical education, and, therefore, he worked to pay his own way through high school. The determined effort that he put forth during his formative years helped prepare him to lead students into a deep understanding of hard work, perseverance, and personal responsibility, in addition to an appreciation of a good education. Mr. DeMasi’s upbringing, family dynamic, and education paved the way for him to assume the role as Principal at MCA. He is successfully guiding the school into maintaining its mission of delivering a high-quality, classical education to all students, tuitionfree, regardless of income or ZIP code. Mr. DeMasi has worked for MCA since its founding in 2014. During that inaugural year he led the third grade teachers and students to an astonishing pass rate on the English FSA, helping to propel the school toward its current status of top 2% of all public schools in the state of Florida. Apart from a stellar 10
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Mason Classical Academy
record of teaching and leadership, Teacher of the Year status, and Teacher Paladin award, he met his wife in a classroom just down the hall. Annaleah Miravalle, current K-12 Academic Dean, became Mrs. DeMasi after working next to him at MCA for five years. They expect their first child this month. During any given school day, one can find Mr. DeMasi working with teachers, developing quality curriculum and instruction, and even teaching a history class. One of his favorite things to do at work is play football with elementary school students during
recess. A fan of classical literature, Mr. DeMasi is an avid reader of authors J.R.R. Tolkien, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Wendell Berry. He firmly believes in looking on the bright side of life, and consistently relays that message to MCA students and faculty. When asked how he maintains such a positive attitude, he says it is because he has a God who loves him, a wife who loves him, and lives in the greatest country in the world. Mason Classical Academy is thrilled to have John DeMasi as Principal and looks forward to many more years with him at the helm.
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
Meet the Head of School
Temple Shalom Preschool is directed by Rabbi Ariel Boxman. Rabbi Boxman joined the preschool in August 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to directing the preschool, Rabbi Boxman serves as the rabbi educator for Temple Shalom. She oversees all educational programs for children and adults, leads the congregation in ritual and worship, and officiates at lifecycle events. Rabbi Boxman earned her bachelor’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C., and her rabbinical ordination from Hebrew Union College. In 2013, Rabbi Boxman also completed her master’s of education. Rabbi Boxman has not only doubled enrollment since she began in August, but she has added to the program offerings and increased student and parent engagement. New additions to the program this year include: an outdoor classroom, a new parent communication app, the Markolit (little market), and a toddler class. Teachers, students, and parents are thrilled with the changes and improvements and are looking forward to additional updates coming in the fall. Rabbi Boxman is most excited about becoming a brand new VPK provider for the 2021-22 school year! Rabbi Boxman is a big believer in innovation and is always looking for opportunities to improve the program. “Directing Temple Shalom Preschool has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. To be greeted each and every morning with precious, smiling faces is truly a dream.” Rabbi Boxman is the mother to two sweet boys (who attend Temple Shalom Preschool) and is celebrating five years of marriage to her husband, Asher. She is thrilled to be here in Naples and is looking forward to many more years directing Temple Shalom Preschool!
Dr. Ray Casey was appointed Head of School at First Baptist Academy in August 2017. He comes to the role with more than 20 years’ experience in senior leadership and advisory roles in the education and non-profit sectors. He has a track record for creating high performing, fiscally secure organizations. In particular his expertise centers on organizational leadership, strategic planning, individual/team performance, and capacity building. Dr. Casey has 12 kids, (six are married) and three grandkids. At First Baptist Academy we can say with confidence and integrity that we are committed to providing a rigorous, academic program of studies designed to challenge and prepare our students to serve in the Kingdom of God. First Baptist Academy is a ministry of First Baptist Church Naples. As a ministry of FBCN, we are blessed to share the 94-acre campus God has provided in Naples, Florida, and also are privileged to be a part of the church’s mission of “making Christ known, in Southwest Florida and beyond.”
Temple Shalom Preschool
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
First Baptist Academy
“Whatever it takes for as long as it takes to restore a broken life!”
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Meet the Director
EDUCATION
By Amanda Sterk, Ed.D.
College Admissions in COVID-19
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ll around us we see the affects of COVID-19 and what it has done to our community. For many high school seniors across the nation, it has some other consequential affects on their college admissions and where the students are planning to go. While college admissions can be a stressful event in any year, the shutdown of schools, standardized testing, college tours, and normal college recruitment activities have made this year’s process even more difficult. How has college admissions changed? Many private and public colleges and universities throughout the nation went test optional, a term used when students have the
option to submit college entrance exams or not. This was due to the lack of testing options for students as many testing sites were shut down throughout the summer and into early fall. As colleges went test optional, more students began applying for the coveted seats of highly selective schools. Harvard College recently reported a 57% increase in early action college applications for fall 2021, making it the most competitive early admissions season in the school’s history. Other top universities reported similar numbers and reported larger numbers of their class of 2024 who had deferred admissions and elected to take a gap year. However, Florida was the only state in the country that still
A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life. INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE
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VPK ELEMENTARY
Call to schedule a private tour
239-597-2255
TOGETHER - VIBRANT - SAFE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR SCAN THE QR
LEARN MORE
More information can be found on our website
www.naplesmontessori.org 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0132
The Village School of Naples 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Naples, FL 34109 | 239-593-7686 www.villageschoolnaples.org
Daily hours from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.
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The Village School provides an
EMPOWERS and INSPIRES students to think and CREATE solutions to challenges in
environment that
an ever-changing world.
Are you ready to become a Knight for Life?
NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
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required traditional incoming freshman (fall 2021) to submit SAT or ACT scores for admissions. This is having a significant effect on the Florida State University System (SUS) admissions cycle, with a decrease of applications of around 50% at some universities. For example, University of Central Florida saw applications drop 21%, with 50% fewer students submitting SAT scores compared to last year. Many SUS universities are rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed throughout the year. Fewer students are applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) this year. The Florida College Access Network of Florida predicts around $100 million dollars will be left unused because students simply did not apply. From 2018 to 2019, fewer Southwest Florida (SWFL) students filed the FAFSA, which resulted in a loss of over $600,000 for our students. Recently, the FutureMakers Coalition, a group of educators, business partners, and community leaders, held a Student Voice Summit, which invited local high school students to discuss “real time” perspectives of students to better understand educational barriers. Through the summit, 64% of high school students said they believed the COVID-19 crisis will impact some part of their postsecondary journey, 22% stated it would severely impact their journey, and 14% stated it had no impact. How to move forward There still is a great deal of uncertainty for the remaining school year and into next. As parents and students start to look forward, many are reconsidering their options. Due to the pandemic, many post-secondary institutions have increased the functionality of their websites, including online document submission, orientations, and virtual tours. For example, Florida SouthWestern State College has added new chat features on its website for instant solutions, created new modalities of learning, and created new classroom conversions for its eLearning platforms. These new approaches will allow students to interact on their own time and in their own way. Many colleges may keep these new methods even after in-person college life fully resumes. Colleges that have gone test optional are evaluating keeping this new admissions policy. This could lead to a more holistic approach to college admissions. Students are looking into a variety of educational options. For example, Florida has very strong articulation agreements between the state college system and the state university system. General education courses, traditionally taken in the first two years of college, are easily transferable and protected under state law. So, while a student might have had some admissions limitations, transferring between colleges and universities can be a great choice and very cost effective as well. Lastly, there is quite a bit of money in both scholarships and other financial aid still on the table in SWFL. With applications down for scholarships sponsored by local foundations, students will have a better chance of winning both merit or need-based awards. All our local post-secondary institutions and school districts have created some great tutorials on how to complete the FAFSA as well. In the end, COVID-19 has led to some new innovative ways to help support and reach students. Parents and students should continue looking at post-secondary options as it is even more imperative in a post-pandemic world to earn a degree or credential. NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
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EDUCATION
By Sarah Lyons
How to Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting how things are going at school. The teacher can help identify your child’s strengths and challenges and may suggest what services would be helpful to them. If possible, observe your child in the classroom to get a feel for how social interactions and classroom learning are going. Knowing this information, as well as their current math and reading levels, will help you assist in setting goals during the IEP meeting.
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n individualized education program (IEP) is a key component of your child’s special education plan. By law, schools are required to provide services to kids who qualify. An IEP meeting is where both educators and the child’s guardians set goals and identify which services will be provided. This can be very intimidating for parents. With preparation and research before the meeting, parents will feel more informed and confident during the meeting. The time spent before will lead them to be better advocates for their child while developing a plan that will help the child have more success in school, and keeping everyone happy. Below you will find six steps to help best prepare you for your child’s IEP meeting.
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1. Talk to the teacher It is important to talk to your child’s teacher to determine
2. Read The school should send home a meeting notice that states who will attend the IEP meeting, the reason for meeting, and, if applicable, goals set in the previous IEP meetings. Carefully read the information sent home so you understand what to expect. You may also consider studying special education laws that pertain to your child’s needs so you know what services you legally can ask for. There are many websites and books available to help parents prepare for IEP meetings as well (see page 29 for some book suggestions). The more knowledge you have, the more confident and comfortable you will feel during the meeting. 3. Set goals Before the meeting, write down questions you would like to ask at the meeting. This is also a great time to consider what visions and goals you have for your child and make note of them. Bring your notes with you to the meeting so you can refer to them throughout the process. Having a list of questions and an idea of goals you would like to see your child reach will help you make sure that you cover everything you had hoped even if the emotions of the meeting make it more difficult to remember your questions and concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask for additional services for your child. The school may not provide everything you had in mind, but it never hurts to ask.
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NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
Books to help you understand and prepare for your child’s IEP meeting • The Art of Advocacy: A Parent’s Guide to a Collaborative IEP Process, by Charmaine Thaner • Better IEP Meetings Everyone Wins, by Cynthia M. Herr and Barbara D. Bateman • Wrightslaw: All About IEPs, by Peter W. D. Wright and Pamela Darr Wright • Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide, by Peter W.D. Wright and Pamela Darr Wright • Your Special Education Rights: What Your School District Isn’t Telling You, by Jennifer Laviano and Julia Swanson • The IEP from A to Z: How to Create Meaningful and Measurable Goals and Objectives, by Diane Twachtman-Cullen and Jennifer Twachtman-Bassett
5. Bring an advocate Because IEP meetings can be intimidating, it can be helpful to bring an advocate to the meeting with you. This could be a lawyer or, simply, a spouse or co-parent. Having a person there both for support and to be another advocate for your child can be a good boost of confidence to help ensure you meet the goals you would like for your child. Be sure to let your school know, in advance, who will be attending the meeting with you. 6. Be confident You know your child best and are the best person to represent their needs, challenges, and successes. While it can be emotional and overwhelming to address issues your child is facing when it comes to learning, setting goals and ensuring the proper services are provided is the best thing you can do for your child’s success in school. Dress appropriately for the meeting, bring the documents and notes you prepared, and speak confidently and lovingly about your child. Your preparation and concerns will be apparent to everyone at the meeting and you will have the reassurance that you were prepared and did your best to help your child be successful in school.
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4. Get organized Collect any paperwork you need or would like to bring to the meeting and gather it in one place so it is neat and organized for the meeting. Bring your notes from your observation, your list of questions and goals you would like to set, and any medical paperwork that pertains to the IEP meeting. If you have had any private evaluations done, bring copies of those as well.
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For 24 years, First Baptist Academy has served the SWFL region as a premiere Christ-centered, college preparatory school, educating nearly 700 students annually from preschool through high school. With a uniquely personal approach to education, students are challenged daily to progress in their knowledge, talents and faith - growing in confidence and elevating to their highest potential. Our talented students are achieving beyond the classroom as well. Students compete and excel in a full range of athletic opportunities, with individual and team sports. Our fine arts programs are strong and thriving in the areas of art, theatre, vocal and instrumental music reaching large audiences throughout our community.
First Baptist Academy Head of School - Dr. Ray Casey
That’s all a part of the unparalleled opportunities our FBA Lions have. Whether you’re new to the area or making a change during the school year, we welcome you to tour our campus, meet our staff and students, and ask any questions you have.
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NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021
First Baptist Academy
3000 Orange Blossom Drive Naples, Florida 34109
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“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” –Aristotle
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Website: MasonAcademy.com Address: 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples Email: Info@Masonacademy.com NEAPOLITANfamily • Education Guide 2021 Phone Number: (239) 227-2838
