Neapolitan Family February 2023

ON VIEW NOW!

Immerse yourself in this exhibition featuring the plants and animals that inspired one of the world’s most iconic artists.

Supported by:

Hudson Mach is the son of Matthew and Katya Mach, attends Temple Shalom Preschool, and is celebrating his fourth birthday this month. He is an avid swimmer and often visits Baker Park to watch planes and enjoy the playground. Hudson is adept at looking after his two younger brothers (Hunter, 2 years old, and Caden, 6 months old). He often helps his parents “settle down” his brothers by sharing his toys or entertaining them with music and dancing. Hudson loves playing pretend games with his brothers. He likes to dress up as a police officer or a firefighter to enforce “law and order” or “save the day” in his chaotic house.

Cover photo by Monica Alvarez www.monicaalvarezphotography.com 305-815-3495 info@monicaalvarezphotography.com

10 Dental Health for Kids. Tips for maintaining your little one’s teeth by McKenzie Schott, D.M.D. 11 Black History Month. Take your family on a tour of Florida to learn more about Black history. 16 Music for Minors. This local nonprofit provides young musicians with free instruments and lessons. by Andrea Stetson 17 We Love It! Fun new products for Valentine’s Day. 20 Education Directory. Find the info you need in our annual listing of the best schools in SWFL. 27 Meet the Leader. Learn more about the people guiding the education of our children 31 Free Homework Help. Two local library branches are offering afterschool assistance. 34 The Academic Factor. Learn more about the academic options available to your high schooler. by Amanda Sterk, Ph.D. 36 Local Schools Chart Check out our BIG list of area schools

X SATURDAY MOVIE MATINEE NAPLES LIBRARY 650 CENTRAL AVE., NAPLES 239-252-5135

WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG Hotel Transylvania 3, rated PG. Registration not required. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2-4 p.m. X PRESCHOOL NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY 21100 THREE OAKS PKWY., ESTERO 239-533-4400 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY Spooktacular stories, songs, and crafts. Wear your costume for a parade inside the library. Ages 3-5. Wednesday, Oct. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

buy & sell

gently

used kids stuff • Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment, and more. • We pay cash on the spot. • No appointment necessary; clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container. 13560 Tamiami Trail N. #4, Naples 239-596-6096 Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121 www.onceuponachildnaples.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2022 neafamily.com 19

from the publisher…

the

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com

Co-Publisher

Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333

Co-Publisher

Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529

Travel Editor

Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026

Newsletter Editor Emily Brockelsby Feature Writers Anna Snyder Andrea Stetson

Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at https://neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2023 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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THIS MONTH Education

I moved to Naples in 2006 (yes, just before the last housing market crash), when my daughter was a year old. After arriving in town, I started my search for the most important thing on my list: a preschool. I asked my new neighbors for recommendations, but of course the preschool that every child on the street attended was full.

Cue Neapolitan Family! I stumbled across the magazine for the first time at the library, and I’m so grateful for that discovery. For the past 17 years, it has been my guide to everything related to parenting in Southwest Florida. So I understand how important this information is to other parents, especially new parents.

To meet that need, we have again expanded our annual Education Guide, which starts on page 19. This special section covers kids from infants to high schoolers, and it features listings that give you a quick look at the best local schools and tutors, “Meet the Leader” section that introduces the people leading some of those schools, a reference chart of area schools, plus articles on the importance of music for young brains, what to look for when touring preschools and daycares, and how to help your high schooler choose the best classes. You also can turn to our website (https://neafamily.com/directory) for our new education directory.

Also this month, we offer tips on dental health for kids on page 10, travel destinations in Florida where your family can learn more about Black history on page 11, and our favorite new products for Valentine’s Day on page 17.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

What School Boundary Changes in Collier Mean for Your Family

With the addition of Aubrey Rogers High School (ARH), set to open in Naples in August, Collier County Public Schools was tasked with adjusting high school attendance boundaries for the 2023-24 school year. While change is never easy, the addition of ARH will address over population at some of our area high schools while adding great value to our community.

An attendance boundary modification team collected data and community input to prepare proposed changes for the school board’s review. “The aim was to create an attendance boundary for Aubrey Rogers High School while easing capacity concerns at Gulf Coast High School and Palmetto Ridge High School,” explained Mark Frehe, CCPS senior director, student and staff projections, allocations, and reporting. The team took into consideration the following factors when preparing the new maps:

• keep neighborhoods together;

• minimize impact;

• time and distance of bus routes;

• future residential growth;

• fiscal responsibility; and

• school board policy.

At its Jan. 10, meeting, the school board approved the final proposal and solidified the new attendance boundary lines. “Looking at the high school maps for hours and hours, this really is the best plan for the boundary lines,” said Stephanie Lucarelli, CCPS school board member.

The changes affect the following high schools: Barron Collier, Golden Gate, Gulf Coast, Palmetto Ridge, and, of course, Aubrey Rogers.

Rising juniors and seniors affected by the new attendance boundaries who wish to remain at their current school must submit a Parental Choice application to guarantee a spot at their current high school. The Parental Choice application is available through Feb. 19.

Freshmen and sophomores wishing to stay at their current

school may submit a Parental Choice application. Approvals are subject to capacity and class-size restrictions. For more information on Parental Choice, visit www.collierschools. com/parentalchoice.

If your address was impacted by the attendance boundary modification and you wish to attend your newly zoned school, you do not need to do anything further.

It has been 19 years since CCPS opened a new high school, and we are extremely excited for the addition of ARH to our community. For further information related to the boundary modification, visit www. collierschools.com/boundary.

Dental Health Tips for Kids

Often parents ask me why dentists put such an emphasis on brushing their children’s teeth twice a day, especially considering they are “just baby teeth.” Childhood caries, better known as cavities, is the single most common chronic childhood disease in the United States, more common than asthma, obesity, and diabetes. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that feed on the sugar we consume and, in turn, produce acid that breaks down tooth structure, causing decay.

A baby’s first teeth, called primary teeth, start erupting gradually at around 6-12 months old, and all primary teeth are present by 2-3 years old. Children typically lose their last baby tooth around 11-13 years old. Once a baby’s first tooth has erupted, brushing should begin. Create good brushing habits when your children are young because cavities, even in baby teeth, can progress over time, causing pain and, in more serious cases, infection. A child’s first permanent (adult) teeth begin erupting at age 6. These teeth must last for many years to come, so it is important to instill good oral health habits early on to set your child up for success.

To keep your child’s teeth healthy and to prevent cavities, follow these tips: Brush twice daily. It is recommended to brush your children’s twice daily: once in the morning, preferably after breakfast, and again right before bed. Brushing before

bed is critical because our saliva (a protective measure) is significantly reduced when we sleep, creating the perfect environment for sugar-eating bacteria to cause cavities. Children should brush for two minutes each time, and any teeth that touch should be flossed to remove plaque and leftover food. To encourage your children to brush, you can set a timer and place it somewhere they can actively watch it count down, or play a two-minute song. Parents will need to brush their children’s teeth until they have the manual dexterity to do so themselves, and, even then, children should be supervised when brushing up to age 9 to ensure they are brushing properly.

Use fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that supports the development of healthy bones and teeth. It strengthens the enamel, the protective outermost layer of our teeth, and helps prevent cavities. A rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste should be used to brush children’s teeth from when the first tooth erupts to age 3, after which use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. In addition, fluoride varnish can be applied by your child’s dentist, starting when the first tooth erupts and can be reapplied every three months as needed.

Reduce sugar intake and snacking. Your child’s diet is important in preventing cavities. Cavities are caused by a combination of a sugary diet, an acidic environment, and genetics. Sugar fuels cavity-causing

bacteria that live in our mouths. By reducing sugar intake and frequency, you decrease the likelihood of your child developing cavities. Switch your children’s snacks to low-sugar foods and drinks, and give them water whenever possible. Avoid snacks that are high in added sugar and/or carbohydrates, and avoid sticky snacks, like fruit gummies.

It is important to note some foods that are healthy for your child’s body are not always healthy for their teeth. For example, milk is a carbohydrate, which is a fancy name for sugar. While milk is great for developing healthy bones, sending your child to bed with a bottle of milk without brushing is actually very bad for their teeth. Treats are okay in moderation, but remember to brush their teeth after a sugary treat.

Visit the dentist regularly. A baby’s first dentist appointment should happen by their first birthday, and children should be regularly seen by their dentist every six months for a checkup. By establishing a dental home for your children, early intervention for any dental issue your children may have can happen faster and more efficiently. During these appointments, your dentist will check your child’s teeth for any cavities and their overall oral health. They may also provide education and recommendations specific to your child and their needs

Visiting the dentist at an early age can help reduce potential fears. However, if your child suffers from dental anxiety and/or has a medical, physical, or emotional disability that limits their ability to understand directions and remain calm talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry. Sedation can ease fears and relax your child for a stress-free visit. If you have any health concerns regarding your children’s oral health, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist.

MCKENZIE SCHOTT, D.M.D., is a dentist with Healthcare Network, which provides full dental services including pediatric sedation in Collier County. In addition to free-standing locations, the organization operates two mobile units that deliver primary dental care directly to children and families throughout Southwest Florida. Call 239-658-3000 or visit www.HealthcareSWFL.org.

Six Florida Destinations That Teach About Black History

February is Black History Month, and also a great time to travel in Florida. Explore the state and visit some of the numerous spots where you and your family can learn more about Black history.

Fort Mose Historic State Park, 5 Fort Mose Trail, St. Augustine

Fort Mose was the southern destination of the Underground Railroad network. Also the site of the first legally sanctioned Black community in what is now the United States, Fort Mose was a safe haven for slaves who escaped the English colonies. The state park has a museum, visitor center, interpretive exhibits, and live reenactors throughout the grounds, who bring the history of the park to life. www. floridastateparks.org

Lincolnville Historic District, St. Augustine

Founded in 1866 by former slaves, the Lincolnville Historic District is known for the growth of Black-owned businesses, created in response to segregation, and was a focal point of the civil rights movement. www.visitstaugustine.com

Kingsley Plantation, 11676 Palmetto Ave., Jacksonville

Visitors can explore the Kingsley Plantation, located inside the Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve, to learn about the people who lived there more than 150 years ago. Admission is free to the site, which includes the slave quarters, barn, waterfront, planter’s house, kitchen house, and interpretive garden. www.nps. gov/timu/learn/historyculture/kp.htm

Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, 511 W. South St., Orlando

Built in 1926 by Dr. William Monroe Wells, one of Orlando’s

first practicing Black physicians, as hotel and entertainment venue for Black visitors who otherwise were not allowed in other establishments due to segregation, the hotel hosted such luminaries as Bo Diddly, Ella Fitzgerald, and B.B. King, who performed and stayed there. The museum contains civil rights memorabilia, art, and artifacts. www.wellsbuilt.org

African-American Museum of the Arts, 325 South Clara Ave., Deland

The African-American Museum of the Arts features more than 150 African and Caribbean American works of art and artifacts, as well as a rotating exhibition space for established and emerging Black artists. The museum currently is sponsoring research on a book about the Spring Hill neighborhood where it is located. Free admission. www.africanmuseumdeland.org

Rosewood

Less than an hour west of Gainesville, near Cedar Key, is the site of a town that was burned to the ground during a racial massacre in 1923. After a white woman accused a Black man of attacking her and escaping, the town of Rosewood hunted all Black people, lynching several, with the rest fleeing to nearby towns, never to return. The town, including all of the Black-owned homes and businesses, was burned and destroyed, and the land was unlawfully sold or given away to the remaining white families. There is nothing to see there now except for a sign marking the historical site, which was erected over 70 years later.

For more information on Rosewood, visit Black History in America at www.myblackhistory.net/Rosewood.htm. Rosewood, a movie about the massacre released in 1997, is available on Amazon Prime Video.

OUT & ABOUT in February

1 WEDNESDAY

9 a.m. Safari Squad. Also Saturdays. Ages 1-4 with an adult. Animal encounter, storytime, art, and play stations. Registration required. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Check www.napleszoo.org or call 239-920-2085, x158.

11:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Select dates through Feb. 11. Located at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-278-4422 or visit www.broadwaypalm.com.

2 p.m. Game Time for Black History Month. Ages 5+. Features games that originated in Africa and a famous African Americans trivia game. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

2 p.m. Make-and-Take. Drop-in workshop for kids and adults where they learn about featured museum exhibitions and then create their own artwork. Free with museum admission. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-254-2621, email jwozniak@artisnaples.org, or check www.artisnaples.org.

4 p.m. Drop-in Game Time: Chess and More. Ages 11+. Join us weekdays after school for chess, checkers, and other board

games. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

2 THURSDAY

3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Be creative, make new friends, and have fun. Bricks provided. Ages 5-11. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-7064 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

4:30 p.m. Avow Kids Creative Expression. Tuesdays, ages 5-19; Thursdays ages 11-17. Games, singing, writing, discussion. Free. Located at Avow Aunt Janet’s House, 1301 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples. Email AvowKids@avowcares.org or call 239-261-4404.

3 FRIDAY

10 a.m. Train Rides. Naples’ only outdoor train ride. Fridays and Saturdays through April. Located at Naples Lionel Train Museum, 401 10th St. S., Naples. Visit www.naplestrainmuseum.org.

5:30 p.m. Avow Kids First Friday Movie Night. This month’s movie is Encanto. Free. Located at Avow Ispiri Community Center, 1205 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples. RSVP to 239-261-4404or AvowKids@avowcares.org.

4 SATURDAY

8 a.m. Reel in the Sunshine Fishing Expo. Free. Demonstrations, BBQ samples, giveaways, discounts, and more. Located at Sunshine Ace Hardware, 9100 Bonita Beach Rd. S.E., Bonita Springs. Check www.sunshineace.com.

9 a.m. Free Zoo Admission for Collier Residents. Present qualifying ID for free entry on the first Saturday of the month. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-920-2085 or check www.napleszoo.org.

9 a.m. Mini Moo Petting Zoo. Experience goats, rabbits, chickens, and maybe a couple of surprises. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7371 or check www.collierlibrary.org

10 a.m. Broadway Babies. Ages 9 months to 2 years with caregivers. Explore music and dance with your Broadway Baby. Located at Gulfshore Playhouse, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Visit www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org or call 239-261-PLAY.

10 a.m. Free Kids’ Fishing. Fish on the back lake (catch and release). Located at Bass Pro Shop, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-461-7800 or check www.basspro.com.

10 a.m. Learn and Play. Ages 3+ with caregiver. Hands-on, interactive learning activities for adult and child. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239252-7369 and check www.collierlibrary.org.

10 a.m. Pineapple Day. Celebrate with games, toys, pineapple recipes, demonstrations, and prizes. Located at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-1440 or check www.colliermuseums.com.

2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee: DC League of Superpets. Rated PG. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

MONDAY

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime and Craft. Stories, songs, and crafts for all ages. Registration not required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

7 TUESDAY

11 a.m. Learn and Play. Ages 3+ with caregiver. Hands-on, interactive learning activities for you and your child. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

8 WEDNESDAY

10 a.m. Preschool Program: Be My Valentine. Ages 3-5. Vintage-inspired valentines, heart-themed activities, and a story. Registration encouraged. Located at Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-252-8476 or check www.colliermuseums.com.

3:30 p.m. Art Lab. Ages 6-11. Creative hands-on monthly art experience. Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Check www.leegov.com/ library or call 239-533-4400.

6:30 p.m. 5 Love Languages Marriage Conference. Discover the tools you need to make a good relationship great, or a hurting relationship heal. Located at Covenant Church, 6926 Trail Blvd, Naples. Check www.covenantnaples.com or call 239-597-3464.

9 THURSDAY

4 p.m. Lego Fun. Ages 4-11. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

10 FRIDAY

Library Hours. Valentine’s Cards. Also Feb. 11, 13, and 14. Make some Valentines for the ones you love. Supplies available all day in the children’s room. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7109.

5:30 p.m. Valentine Candy House. Ages 3-11. Children will use candy, frosting, and cookies to design their candy house. $10. Located at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-4105 or check www.collierparks.com.

6:30 p.m. Alice in Wonderland. Also Saturday at 1 p.m. A Children for the Arts production. Located at Pulte Center Stage, St. John’s Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. Check www. childrenforthearts.com or email help@childrenforthearts.com.

11 SATURDAY

11 a.m. Pioneer Valentines. Celebrate Valentine’s Day like the pioneers did. Located at Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch, 1215 Roberts Ave. W., Immokalee. Call 239-252-2611 or check www.colliermuseums.com.

11 a.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

12 p.m. Fuse Beading. Create a star, horse, flower, and other fun shapes. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-252-7073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee – Minions: The Rise of Gru. Rated PG-13. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239252-5135.

3 p.m. Lego Fun. Bricks are provided, so let your imagination run wild. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

Scan a for even more familyfriendly events.

12 SUNDAY

8 a.m. Kids Love Fishing. Free. Sponsored by Collier County Junior Deputies League. Catch-and-release fishing, demos, bounce house, food, and more. Located at Lake Price at Camp Discover, 8504 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd. Ext., Naples. Check www.juniordeputies.com.

5 p.m. The Kids’ Club: Movie Night. Valentine’s Day movie, activities, pizza, and ice cream for parents and kids younger than 12. Located at Naples Pride Center, 2248 Airport Rd. S., Naples. Check www. naplespride.org or call 239-304-9407.

14 TUESDAY

6 p.m. Valentine Fun for Teens. Ages 12-17. Make heart-shaped pop-up art, participate in challenges, and make new friends. Registration not required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Check www.leegov. com/library or call 239-533-4400.

16 THURSDAY

3:30 p.m. Kindness Club. Fun activities designed to encourage kindness. Ages 7-11. Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

6 p.m. The Artsy Evening. Ages 5-12. An evening of art-making activities for kids. Registration required. Located at Naples Art, 585 Park St., Naples. Check www. naplesart.org or call 239-262-6517.

17 FRIDAY

3:30 p.m. Game Day. Play a variety of fun and challenging games. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-252-7073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

18 SATURDAY

10 a.m. History & Heritage Days. Also Sunday. Exhibits and activities for the whole family. Located at Museum of the Everglades, 105 Broadway Ave. W., Everglades City. Call 239-252-5026 or check www.colliermuseums.com

10 a.m. SWFL Veg Fest. Enjoy a wide assortment of fully plant based food, products,

To complete a milestone checklist, visit:

services, and more. Located at Farmer Mike’s U Pick, 26031 Morton Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-7369 or check www.aplantbaseddiet.org/swfl-veg-fest.

12 p.m. Blues, Brews, and BBQ. The area’s best BBQ, live music, car show, mechanical bull rides, and kids’ activities. Located at Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Cr., Ave Maria. Visit www. avemaria.com or call 239-352-3903.

20 MONDAY

11 a.m. Gigi and Friends. All ages. Family fun. Registration required. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-5334860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

21 TUESDAY

4 p.m. Lego Crew. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. Ages 5-13. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

23 THURSDAY

3:45 p.m. Hands-on Cooking. Ages 7+. Make a yogurt parfait. Registration required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-2524549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

close and personal with a firetruck, ambulance, police car, and more. Crafts and prizes inside. All ages. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7350 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

10 a.m. Youth Business Fair. Free admission. Young entrepreneurs sell their wares. Located at Gulf Coast High School, 7878 Shark Way, Naples. Check www. napleschamber.org/youthbusinessfair.

2 p.m. Design a Tote Bag. Create your own unique bag. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239252-7073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

28 TUESDAY

4 p.m. Little Engineers Design and Build. Build with blocks, nuts, bolts, and more. Ages 5-13. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

5:30 p.m. Exceptional Night. For children with autism and other sensory integration disorders or other disabilities. Located at Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check www.cmon.org or call 239- 514-0084.

Try our virtual milestone checklist ...because milestones matter!

Is your child's development on track?

Music for Minors is Making Musical Dreams Come True

“Music for Minors has had a great impact on my life,” said Hernandez. “Ever since I was in middle school, I dreamed of being in band. Music for Minors ... allowed me to take lessons for free, and they gave me an instrument. Without Music for Minors I would not be the person I am today. Thanks to them, my love for music will continue to grow, and my spark for music will always be there.”

Jaime Valerio, another Fort Myers High School sophomore, received a tenor sax, free lessons, and money to help pay for the high school’s band’s trip to London.

“Music for Minors has helped me grow as a person and grow as a musician,” Valerio said. “They donated $2,000 for me to go to London, so it really helped a lot. Without them, I would not have gone very far. Music for Minors has motivated me and pushed me and challenged me. It really changed me a lot. It really helped me.”

Jonathan Hernandez has a professional alto saxophone. He’s only a sophomore in high school but already is drum major for his marching band. He’s been first chair at the School District of Lee County’s All County Band for the past two years, and he recently returned from a trip to London where he performed in the New Year’s Day Parade. The sophomore at Fort Myers High School said none of this would have been possible without Music for Minors.

Since Music for Minors was founded in 2004 it has awarded more than 300 instruments to students in Collier and Lee counties and some $75,000 in private lessons and college scholarships. Each year the nonprofit contacts teachers to nominate deserving students in the music programs at their school. The students are interviewed, and those chosen receive an instrument of their choice. If they remain in the program for three years, the instrument is theirs to keep.

In December, 10 additional students in Collier and Lee counties were awarded instruments. About 10-15 new kids a year are accepted, so there usually are about 40-50 in the program. Don Rhynard, president of Music for Minors, says the group targets seventh and eighth graders so they have a head start with their music before getting to high school. The organization was founded by Dorothy Friedenreich, whose son Glenn loves music and plays the trumpet.

“She saw how much he loved it, and she just thought that every kid should have that opportunity,” Rhynard explained. “Disadvantaged kids can’t always afford an instrument or lessons, and she wanted to fill that niche.”

It’s not just instruments and lessons that the youngsters receive. For example, in 2021 a Collier County high school senior received a $1,500 college scholarship, while in 2019, a local student who received both a clarinet and private lessons won a spot in the Naples Youth Philharmonic Orchestra. Music for Minors helped send a local girl to New York in 2018 to be part of Macy’s Great American Marching Band in the Thanksgiving Day parade.

The group receives private donations of money and instruments, but the largest portion always came from the annual Bonita Blues Festival, which has raised about $15,000 each year. The festival ended its run in 2022, so Music for Minors is starting its own signature event. A fundraising concert is scheduled at Naples United Church of Christ on Crayton Road at 2 p.m. on Feb. 11. The concert is free, but donations will be collected.

“We are calling it a musical mashup,” Rhynard said. The first half of the concert will feature musicians from the Naples Philharmonic. The second half highlights the Stardust Memories Big Band with singer Michelle Amato. Then Rhynard, Hernandez, and Valerio will perform the saxophone trio “Scherzo

“Our mission is to make every one of our student’s musical dreams and goals come true,” Rhynard concluded.

for Three Saxophones” by Arthur Frackenpohl.

L-R: Jonathan Hernandez and Jaime Valerio play their new saxophones, donated by Music for Minors. Photo courtesy of Music for Minors.

We Love It: Valentine’s Day!

Some great new products just in time to give to a love one, or treat yourself

Louis Vuitton

Heart Coin Purse

True Fashionistas

Naples www.truefashionistas.com

Pre-owned Louis Vuitton red monogram heart coin purse. In good, used condition. Authenticated with Entrupy. $361.99.

Heart Blouse Petunias of Naples www.petuniasofnaples.com

This heart-print blouse from Vine & Love is perfect for both Valentine’s Day and year-round wear. $69.99.

Signature Collection, 24-piece Heart-Shaped Chocolate Gift Box Norman Love Confections Naples, Estero, Fort Myers, and Sarasota www.normanloveconfections.com

The rich, luxurious flavors of Norman Love’s 2023 Valentine’s Day Collection, offered in a 24-piece heart-shaped gift box for $65. Valentine gift boxes start at $15 for the 5-piece box and go up to $108 for a 50-piece box. Available Jan. 30 through Feb. 14.

Hearts Knit Jumper and Trousers

Sunset & Pine www.shopsunsetpine.com

The Hearts jumper and trousers from Bobo Choses are 100% cotton. Sizes available range from 6-36 months. $96 (sweater), $72 (trousers).

2023 Education Guide

CHILDREN’S MONTESSORI

2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 239-593-MONT (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 900 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.

COVENANT CHURCH MOM’S MORNING OUT 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples 239-597-3464 www.CovenantNaples.com/Kids

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, free play, art, and music For ages 2-4 (as of Aug. 1).

FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY 3000 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples 239-597-2233 • www.FBAlions.org

For 26 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 is 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.

Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Offering 1 or 2 day options Ages 2– 4 year olds (by August 1st)

868 94th Ave. N., Naples 239-597-5064

www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info

Little People’s School was founded over 40 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.

MASON CLASSICAL ACADEMY

3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples (South Campus) 2647 Professional Cr., Naples (North Campus) 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 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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

OF

NAPLES 2655 Northbrooke Dr., Naples 239-597-2255 • info@naplesmontessori.org www.NaplesMontessori.org

Owned/Operated

By

ADVENTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

2629 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 239-261-NACS (6227) www.NaplesACS.org

Naples Adventist Christian School a PK to grade 8 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, with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8. We accept Step Up For Students scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!

ROYAL PALM ACADEMY

16100 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-594-9888 www.RoyalPalmAcademy.org

Royal Palm Academy offers an integrated experience of Christcentered faith formation, strong moral and family values, bestin-class academic curriculum, leadership development, and a rich student life experience at an affordable tuition. We partner with our families to teach the mind, educate the heart, and form the character of tomorrow’s leaders. Contact us today to schedule a personalized tour of our campus, meet our teachers, and see our students in action. Plus learn more about how you can afford a private, Catholic education for your child. Financial assistance and scholarships are available. Visit us and experience the difference at RPA!

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 to 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.

ST.

ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL

2730 53rd Terrace S.W., Naples 239-455-2262 • www.SaintElizabethSeton.com

St. Elizabeth Seton offers challenging academics as well as spiritual, physical, and social formation for students in PK3 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.

TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL

4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 239-455-3227

www.TempleShalomPreschoolNaples.org

Temple Shalom Preschool is recognized as a high-quality early education program. We have been approved by Florida SouthWestern State College’s Early Childhood Department as an appropriate setting for its pre-service teacher training. We offer classes for infants to 4 years old, as well as a Baby and Me class for babies and toddlers. Our multifaceted 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 their full potential. Included in the program are enrichment classes in science and technology, fitness and yoga, storytelling, music and movement, and creative visual arts.

THE VILLAGE SCHOOL OF NAPLES

6000 Goodlette Frank Rd. N., Naples 239-593-7686

www.VillageSchoolNaples.org

The Village School of Naples is an independent Christian school serving students in pre-K3 to grade 12. The Village School uses project-based learning in a rigorous academic environment to enable students to work collaboratively, think critically, and problem solve with purpose while instilling Christian values in their lives. A Village School education seeks to provide an environment that empowers and inspires students to think and create solutions to challenges in an ever-changing world. It is about building intellect and character. Our various programs are designed and dedicated to academics, the arts, athletics, and service to others. Our exceptional faculty strives to help young people learn about themselves and what they can contribute to the world.

WINDMILL CREEK ACADEMY

2682 S. Horseshoe Ct., Naples 239-434-5439 • www.WindmillCreekAcademy.com

Our well-qualified, caring (and fingerprint/background screened) teachers guide and encourage our students on the path to academic excellence while celebrating each child’s creativity and unique gifts. Love, acceptance, and the joys of childhood guide our curriculum and philosophy. Our goal is that Windmill Creek Academy “graduates” leave not only as great students but also as children of great character. We offer classes for infants through VPK, weekly music classes (included), low student-to-teacher ratio, hot lunch program, and much more.

TUTORS

A+ SKILLS TUTORING 5625 Strand Blvd., #504, Naples 239-254-9807 www.aplusskillstutoring.com

One-to-one personalized tutoring. No contracts. Subjects include (but are not limited to) SAT/ACT prep, college applications and essays, and all elementary/middle/high school subjects. Experienced tutors with BA/BS and MA/MS degrees.

TRACEY ANSTETH ALBERT TUTORING 239-572-8643 • TA1019@aol.com

We 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.

TUTORING FOR STRUGGLING READERS 330-620-6892 • satchison1@gmail.com www.TutoringStrugglingReaders.com

We offer in-person tutoring in reading, language arts, and organizational skills for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Veteran teacher, Wilson Reading certified, OrtonGillingham trained. Flexible hours and location.

Meet the Principal Mason Classical Academy

John DeMasi is the principal of Mason Classical Academy, a high-performing charter school in Naples that delivers a classical education to more than 1,200 students in grades K-12. Mr. DeMasi is a student of history, graduated from Ave Maria University, and has his master’s degree in education. As a young man, it was important to him that he received 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, tuition-free, 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 in the top 2% of all public schools in the state of Florida. Apart from a stellar 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 have a son, and they enjoy being a part of the Naples community.

During any given school day, Mr. DeMasi can be found in classrooms, at recess, and at car line. He believes that to be an effective administrator, it is imperative to be present throughout the school. 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.

Mr. DeMasi encourages any family desiring a rigorous, classical education for their child to apply now during open enrollment for the 2023-24 school year. Go to https://masonacademy.com for more information.

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

Meet the Director

Janine Klaassen Connell is the Founder and Director of Windmill Creek Academy in Naples. A graduate of George Mason University and the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University, Janine brings a uniquely creative approach to preschool education. In the late 1950s, Her parents immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands. Janine’s mother founded a preschool in the early 1980s, which has blossomed into six familyrun schools in Northern Virginia today. In 2008, Janine continued that legacy in Naples. She believes that music and the arts are a natural outlet for young children, as they provide wonderful opportunities for self-expression and joy. She explores music, rhythm, language, and self-expression with her students. These important creative attributes help create a positive learning experience for enhanced learning. For the past 15 years, it has been Windmill Creek Academy’s mission to create a richly rewarding educational experience through academics and creativity.

Meet the Director

Rabbi Ariel Boxman joined Temple Shalom Preschool as Director in August 2020. She also 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 completed her master’s of education.

Rabbi Boxman believes 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 boys (who attend Temple Shalom Preschool) and is celebrating seven years of marriage to her husband, Asher.

Meet the Director

In 2023 Jennifer Lange is celebrating 25 years as Owner, Director, and Lead VPK Teacher at Little People’s School in Naples. Jen taught at LPS for one year before she purchased the business. Her children, now 24 and 28, were the inspiration that fired her passion for developing a quality early childhood education center. Her mission has been to provide a school encompassing everything she knew to be right and beneficial for her own children, not only as a mother but also as a experienced educator. Jennifer holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Penn State and was certified to teach K-6 in Pennsylvania. She also has earned the Child Development Associates Waiver from Edison Community College and the Advanced Directors Credential with the VPK Endorsement from the Florida Office of Early Learning. Jen recently earned a very important director’s endorsement: Trauma Informed Care. She also has over 350 hours of continuing education and countless hours of handson experience working with preschoolers.

Meet the Principal

Michael Buskirk has been Principal of Saint Ann School since 2019. He has been in education for 21 years at both private and public schools. Since becoming a principal eight years ago, he has won many accolades, such as Best Private School in both Jefferson City and Naples. He grew up in Philadelphia and attended Catholic school for 12 years. He received his B.S. from Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science, and his M.Ed. and Ed. S. from University of Missouri in Leadership.

In his tenure at Saint Ann, the school has almost doubled in size to 430 students! Mr. Buskirk has a very transparent leadership style and believes every child should be able to receive a Catholic education. He has implemented many curricular changes and has brought in two resource teachers and a guidance counselor to work with the diverse needs of all students. All programs are faith based, and the school has partnered with the University of Notre Dame’s Play Like A Champion Program that infuses faith into the athletics program. Saint Ann School offers a Catholic Education that goes above and beyond for all children. Go Dolphins!

Meet the Head of School

Dr. Ryan Dupeé has been blessed to have a career both in education and pastoral ministry. Ryan has served as an associate and lead pastor, both church ministries having been associated with Christian schools. After pastoring for several years, God saw fit to allow him to enter the Christian education arena. He has served as a Vice President of a Christian college, developing programs where students would grow in their potential for spiritual and character development. Most recently, Ryan served at Calvary Christian High School in Clearwater. With an enrollment of nearly 800 students, his roles included safety, discipline, spiritual formation, and leading parenting seminars to enhance the partnership with families. Ryan has earned a Bachelor of Science, Master of Divinity, and Educational Doctorate with an emphasis on Organizational Leadership. Ryan also has had the privilege to receive certifications in Leading Schools and Leading Change from Harvard University. Ryan and his wife, Christy, moved to Naples in the fall of 2022, as he assumed the role of Head of School at First Baptist Academy. Ryan desires to help young people pursue Christ alone and follow Him vocationally, whether it is in full-time ministry or the workplace where God places them. He also desires to cultivate young people to love God with all their hearts and have a passion for the salvation of others and the local church. Ryan believes “a successful Head of School will be one who hum bly serves oth ers, models the grace and love of Christ, and creates a workspace for employees that inspires unity and mission through the gospel of Christ.”

Choosing a Preschool

The important questions to ask and what to look for when touring schools

This year, Jen Lange of Little People’s School in Naples is celebrating 25 years as owner, director, and lead VPK teacher of the school. In her quarter century as an educator, Jen has seen a huge shift in how others view early childhood education. Previously, most early child care workers were seen as babysitters. Today, parents are paying attention to the research that shows the benefit of quality early education. According to Jen, more families that tour LPS are asking the important questions about curriculum, the education and experience of the teach ers, and discipline plans. To help you find the perfect preschool for your child, Jen has provided lists of what to look for and the im portant questions to ask as you tour schools.

Top 10 questions to ask

1. Is your center licensed (not just registered) by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF)? If a center is licensed you can look up inspection re cords online. During these unan nounced inspections, DCF counselors look at things like: ratios, background screening and training of teachers, and many other health and safety fac tors. If they are not licensed by DCF, ask “Why not?”

2. What is the teacher-to-student ratio in each classroom/age group?

3. What is the education and experience of your classroom teachers, and how long have the teachers been employed at the school? Longevity can tell you a lot.

4. What curriculum do you use? Will I have access to lesson plans?

5. Who will be with my child daily? Will my child see the same teachers daily?

6. What is your discipline policy? Does it align with your morals and values? Is the policy developmentally appropriate?

7. Who provides snacks and lunch?

8. How do you control who can remove my child from campus? What are your safety procedures?

9. How do you communicate daily with parents?

10. What is the illness policy? Also ask about policies regarding any special needs your child has such as:

allergies, health concerns, deficits, and delays.

Any preschool or daycare should be able to answer these questions without hesitation and with complete candor.

Top 10 things you should see, hear, and smell

1. Smiles! You should see lots of them! Smiles on the Director, the teachers, the children, and the parents. If you aren’t seeing a happy center, move

2. Listen to how the teachers are communicating with the students. Listen to how the students are communicating with each other. Are they using appropriate and kind language?

3. Do the center adults talk to your child on their level?

4. Although the center/school doesn’t need to be shiny and new, it should look well-kept, clean, and smell pleasant.

5. You should see plenty of toys, books, and manipulatives. Are they in good condition?

6. Do you see an organized classroom with a learning wall or obvious learning area? Do you see different areas for play (centers)?

7. Ask if your child can use the bathroom. Bathrooms should be clean, well-stocked (with soap, paper towels, toilet paper), and smell pleasant.

8. Look at the walls. Do you see children’s artwork displayed?

9. Do you hear happy noise? Music? Children laughing? Teachers interacting appropriately with the children?

10. Trust your gut! If you get a feeling on a tour, likely your child is feeling it, too; they may not know how to articulate it. There is a preschool out there for everyone. Your neighbor’s perfect school may not be your child’s perfect school. Do the research. Ask all the questions and trust your gut!

To learn more about Little People’s School, call 239-5975064 or visit www.littlepeoplesschool.info. The school is located at 868 94th Ave., Naples.

Last fall, Collier County Public Library opened new homework centers at its Golden Gate and Immokalee branches. These homework centers were made possible through a federal grant through the American Rescue Plan Act*.

The homework centers at the Golden Gate (2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples) and Immokalee Libraries (417 N. First St., Immokalee) are staffed by current and former educators from Collier County Public Schools. These teachers provide K-12 students with safe and supportive educational environments where they can receive assistance on homework, projects, or specific subjects where they may be struggling. The libraries offer free snacks to participants because hungry children have a harder time focusing and learning.

Registration is not required; participation in this program is entirely voluntary, and students are welcome to come for any length of time. All students (not only CCPS students) in grades K-12 are welcome to stop by, get a snack, and receive help with their homework.

The Golden Gate center is open from 3-6 p.m., MondaysWednesdays. The Immokalee center is open from 3-6 p.m., TuesdaysThursdays. The centers follow the CCPS schedule, but are open for teacher planning days that fall on a Monday. The centers are closed March 13-17, and will close for the summer on May 25.

Photos courtesy of Collier County Public Library.

* Financed in Part by U.S. Department of Treasury, Under Federal Award Number 596000558, and Collier County Community and Human Services Division.

Music: A “Mind Growing” Experience!

Research shows that musical edu cation expands and literally “grows” young minds into other areas of devel opment. Both the right and left hemi spheres of the brain are involved in processing music, or “whole brain” learning. Susan Black, author of Musical Mind Board Journal, Jan. 1997) reveals that musical experiences are displayed in the brain as “multi-modal, involving auditory, visual, cognitive, affective, and motor systems.”

Studies show that early and ongoing musical training helps or ganize and develop children’s brains. According to Dr. Frances Rauscher, psychologist at the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh, musical training appears to dramatically enhance a child’s abstract thinking skills and spatialtemporal ability – skills nec essary for mathematics and sci ence – even more than computer instruction does.

“The 100 billion neurons in a baby’s brain are eager and willing to learn and grow, but to do so, they need stimulation and enrichment to form connections (synapses) and to grow branch ing extensions (dendrites),” Rauscher says. “When their brains are nourished with music, young children grow more connec tions and extensions.” In effect, they get smarter! Wow! It’s worth reading that again! Rauscher contends, “Music might be considered a pre-language which, while children are very young, excites inherent brain patterns and promotes their use in complex reasoning tasks. Based on our findings, we predict that music training at an early age – when the connections in the brain are most plastic – provides exercise for higher brain functions.”

Ready, Maestro?

“That’s great!” you might say, but what if you can’t sing yourself out of a

cation for your child and, possibly, even for yourself.

The first step in musical education is exposing your child to different kinds of music. Don’t get stuck on the same playlists. You owe it to your child to explore different worlds of music: jazz, chamber music, opera, instrumental, rhythm and blues, Latin, choir and vocal music, and so many more. Listen to the music with your child and then ask questions, such as “How does that make you feel?” Watch them – What did your child respond to? What didn’t they like? Why? There’s a whole vocabulary right there to explore in describing sound and also how it makes you feel.

These conversations not only grow your musical appreciation, they help build your child’s vocabulary, conversational skills, and listening skills while also providing meaningful parent and child time.

Create your own life soundtrack

You’ve got to lose your inhibitions and find the music in all that you do. When changing my daughter’s diapers, I would make whooshing and clicking sound effects with each nip and tuck of her diaper. I would make up silly songs as I counted her little toes. She loved it, and I loved that time, too. Create your own life soundtrack with your child. After listening to music together, begin to participate in it. Throw a few beans in an empty water bottle, screw on the lid and you’ve got maracas; flip over an empty coffee container and you’ve got a makeshift drum so you can bang away.

The world is a musical place if you shift your awareness and are open to listening to it. We live in a world of visual stimulation, but listening, truly listening, is such a tremendous skill to develop – one that will help grow your child’s mind.

The point is to start expanding your child’s world to include music, followed by music education. Certainly, what music your child learns to appreciate now may remain with them their whole lives. The biggest piece of this musical pie is that your child will experience increased brain function and lifelong enjoyment. Now that’s a dessert we should all take a bite of!

JANINE KLAASSEN CONNELL is the founder and director of Windmill Creek Academy in Naples. She holds music degrees from the Peabody Conservatory of Music of Johns Hopkins University, as well as George Mason University.

By Amanda Sterk, Ph.D.

Building Your Student’s Academic Factor

High school students today have a wide range of academic options to help accelerate their high school-to-college journey or develop their career readiness skills. The issue for most families is navigating what program may be best for your student, as many families have firm beliefs one program is better than another.

In the new College UnMazed workbook (www.collegeunmazed. com), we identify four major factors that colleges need students to develop to succeed: You Factor, Academic Factor, Career Factor, and Money Factor. While all four factors are important, we are going to focus on building the student’s Academic Factor for this article. Below is provided an altered excerpt from the College UnMazed workbook, Chapter 2: Academic Factor, Understand How to Build the Academic Skills and Plan Needed for College and Career Success.

Building your academic factor

The Academic Factor consists of three areas: 1) academic coursework, 2) grades in that coursework, and 3) standardized test scores on college entrance exams (ACT/SAT). College admission counselors rely heavily on these three factors when making admissions decisions. Every year the National Association for College Admission Counseling surveys college admissions directors across the United States to identify what is important to them when reviewing applicants. The factors ranked as most important by admissions directors – grades in all courses, grades in college prep courses, strength of curriculum, and admission test scores – comprise the Academic Factor. It is important to note here that the courses students choose to take and their grades in those courses are more

important than admission test scores to colleges. More than nine out of 10 admissions directors say that grades in all courses and grades in college prep courses are important. More than eight out of 10 admissions directors say that the strength of the curriculum (e.g., taking honors and AP courses) is moderately or considerably important.

There are three key steps in determining the best option for your student to build the Academic Factor.

The first step as parents and students is to determine what your high school offers. Speak with other parents, the school counselors, and the program directors to get all the critical information about eligibility, deadlines, and options.

The second step is to find a program that allows your student to specialize in areas in which they are interested and excel personally and academically. If they are interested in the medical field, their transcript should showcase courses such as biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and advanced level mathematics. Taking on advanced coursework in a specific field shows your student is willing to stretch themselves to meet future career goals. We will discuss the four main programs below.

The third step is to determine how your student wants to shape their high school experience and what type of learner they are. For example, students who are very active at their school and have limited transportation might do better in credit-byexamination courses where their schedule is set, and they are still able to take accelerated options. However, some students thrive in a college environment where they have fewer classes and can build their own schedule.

Academic programs explained

1. Credit-by-examination. Credit-by-examination (CBE) courses are college-level classes taught by high school teachers that provide students with the opportunity to take on more rigorous coursework. At the end of the course, students are given a standardized test. The score earned on the test can provide college credit. Examples of credit-by-examination are Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE), and College-Level Examination Program (CLEP).

Pros: CBE is a great option for high school students as these courses are taken within their traditional high school schedule. These classes are taught at a more rigorous level and provide an additional weighted grade point average that is used by the Florida State University System (SUS) and other colleges to determine strength of curriculum. CLEP is similar to an AP exam, except that the student is not required to take the high school course, just the exam. AICE and IB diplomas also provide automatic qualification for full Bright Futures Academic Scholars (FAS). Transferability of credit to out-of-state colleges is relatively streamlined (although school-dependent), except for AICE, which is not as widely recognized as the others.

Cons: The pass rate for CBE tests is low, with only about 34% of students earning college-level scores. The course grade also does not transfer to colleges, and some of the courses do not transfer into core general education areas, so students have to retake specific courses once at college. In addition, some high schools are limited in their CBE course offerings.

2. Dual enrollment. In dual enrollment (DE) programs, high school students take actual college courses, either at their high school through concurrent enrollment or through a local college (Florida SouthWestern State College, www.fsw.edu/dualenrollment) or university (Florida Gulf Coast University ACE Program, www.fgcu/edu/admissionsaid/ace). These courses are taught by college-credentialed teachers or college professors. Dual enrollment courses enable students to begin building their college transcript.

Pros: Students have access to hundreds of courses that meet their general education core requirements and/or major/elective requirements for their college degree. Courses can be taken on the college campus, online, or at the high school, creating a more flexible schedule. Credit is guaranteed to transfer to the SUS or Florida College System; out-of-state colleges accept most credit depending on selectivity. Students can elect to take one course up to being a full-time student earning an Associates of Arts degree. All courses are provided additional weighted GPA.

Cons: Students must be eligible to enroll by both their unweighted high school GPA and college-level test scores from the ACT, SAT, Accuplacer-Next Generation, or PERT. Students are building a college transcript, so if they do not do well in the course, it may jeopardize their future college admissions.

3. Industry Certification. Career and technical education programs (CTE) can provide students with hands-on experience in a specific field, often resulting in an industry certification or micro-credential that leads directly to employment. Common programs are certified nursing assistant, veterinarian technician,

welding, and many others. Industry certification can bolster college applications, but your student should carefully consider how doing so strengthens their high school curriculum in the eyes of college admission counselors.

Pros: Workforce credentials are high in demand and can earn a good wage, with programs ranging from six to 18 months. Students can focus on their career early and are provided with hands-on experience. Many of the industry certifications are stackable with other degrees and programs.

Cons: Many students are undecided on their career and may not know which certification to choose. Many CTE programs are clock-hour programs instead of credit programs, so the courses may not transfer to a four-year institution the same way as credit-byexamination or DE credits to both in-state and out-of-state colleges.

The Florida Department of Education regulates how credit earned from these programs (AP, AICE, IB, DE, CTE) is articulated to college credit through the Common Course Numbering System, the weighted grade point average provided for these accelerated programs, and how these credits articulate to high school credit. As a parent, some important documents to understand are: 1) Credit-by-Exam Equivalencies, 2) Dual Enrollment CourseHigh School Subject Area Equivalency List, and 3) Florida State Statute 1007.271, all which can be found at www.fldoe.org.

4. Massive Open Online Courses. Often free, massive open online courses (MOOCs) may not provide high school credit. They are courses taught by experts at universities like MIT, Berkeley, and Harvard on a range of topics like coding, medical neuroscience, business, fitness, and psychology. These courses can provide some of the specialized content that might not be available at your local high school and allow your student to explore specific interests. Even if a MOOC your student takes does not show up on their high school transcript, it can still enhance college applications through the college essay and recommendation letters from counselor or teachers. Some MOOC sites are Coursera, EdX, Khan Academy, FutureLearn, kadenze, Udacity, and Udemy. Colleges look at what opportunities were afforded to students when considering applications for admission. Typically, when a student applies to a college, your school counselor will send a school profile that details what advanced courses are available, average admission test scores, and other academic offerings. This is important for all students, but particularly so for students in high schools that do not have many specialized classes, as the school profile provides important context for admissions officers to consider. There are many opportunities to take advanced courses in high school, online, or through dual enrollment. We recommend you ask early and often about the opportunities available and help your student build a strong high school course of study.

AMANDA STERK, PH.D. , is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and college consultant. She is the author of “College UnMazed: Your Guide to Navigate the High School to College Maze,” www. collegeunmazed.com, a step-by-step colorful, interactive, infographicbased workbook, and is the founder of Sterk Educational Consulting, www.sterkedu.com, where she provides online group and one-on-one support for parents and students navigating the college maze.

Local Schools

School Age/Grade Address Phone Number Website

3 Oaks Academy 1-12g 2655 Northbrooke Dr., Naples 239-776-2100 www.3oaksacademy.com

Able Academy PK-12g 5860 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples 239-352-7600 www.theableacademy.org

Bloom Day School 6m-PK 15300 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 239-249-2084 www.bloomdayschool.com

Bonita Springs YMCA 6w-VPK 27220 Kent Rd., Bonita Springs 239-333-0479 www.ymcaswfl.org

BridgePrep Academy of Collier K-8g 3161 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples 239-677-4211 www.bridgeprepcollier.com

Child’s Path Golden Gate 6w-5y 2925 Titan Way, Naples 239-377-1750 www.childspath.org

Child’s Path Immokalee 6w-3y 701 Immokalee Dr., Immokalee 239-377-1167 www.childspath.org

Child’s Path Moorings 1-5y 777 Mooring Line Dr., Naples 239-980-9021 www.childspath.org

Child’s Path Santa Barbara 1-5y 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples 239-353-4144 www.childspath.org

Children’s Montessori 12m-K 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 239-593-6668 www.childmont.com

Collier Charter Academy K-8g 12101 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-330-3810 www.colliercharter.org

Collier County Public Schools PK-12g 5775 Osceola Tr., Naples 239-377-0001 www.collierschools.com

Community School of Naples PK-12g 13275 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-597-7575 www.communityschoolnaples.org

Covenant Church Moms’ Morning Out 2-4y 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples 239-597-3464 www.covenantnaples.com/kids

Creative World School 6w-10y 2260 Olympia Park Blvd., Naples 239-734-5100 www.creativeworldschool.com

Destiny Learning Center infant-4y 2550 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 239-597-2200 www.destinylearningcenter.org

Donahue Academy PK-12g 4955 Seton Way, Ave Maria 239-842-3241 www.donahueacademy.org

Eagle’s Nest Christian Academy 3-5y 6920 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-593-0055 www.swflministries.com

East Naples Methodist Preschool 1-5y 2701 Airport Pulling Rd. S., Naples 239-774-4696 www.enaples.org/about-the-school

First Baptist Academy PK3-12g 3000 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples 239-597-2233 www.fbalions.org

First Presbyterian Preschool 18m-5y 250 6th St. S., Naples 239-262-8315 www.fpcnaples.org/preschool

Fun Time Early Childhood Academy 2-5y 102 12th St. N., Naples 239-261-8284 www.funtimeacademy.org

Grace Community School 6w-5y 5524 19th Ct. S.W., Naples 239-455-4520 www.gracecommunityschools.com

Grace Community School 6w-5y 871 100th Ave. N., Naples 239-566-7167 www.gracecommunityschools.com

Gulf Coast Charter Academy South K-8g 215 Airport-Pulling Rd. N., Naples 239-784-1539 www.gccas.org

Heavenly Day Preschool 3-5y 7070 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-438-6281 www.heavenlydayschool.com

Lambs of Faith Preschool 2-5y 4150 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples 239-434-5811 www.flcnaples.com/ministries/preschool

Little Ducks Day School 18m-5y 4025 10th St. N., Naples 239-263-3825 www.littleducksdayschool.com

Little Explorers Learning Center 6w-5y 4069 Bayshore Dr., Naples 239-231-3530 www.explorersdaycarenaples.com

Little People’s School 2-4y 868 94th Ave. N., Naples 239-597-5064 www.littlepeoplesschool.info

Livingston Academy 1-5y 12760 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-307-4851 www.livingstonacademynaples.com

Mason Classical Academy K-12g K-8: 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 9-12: 2647 Professional Cr., Naples 239-227-2838 239-880-7584 https://masonacademy.com

Montessori Academy of Naples 2m-10y 2655 Northbrooke Dr., Naples 239-597-2255 www.naplesmontessori.org

Moorings Presbyterian Preschool 2y-VPK 791 Harbour Dr., Naples 239-649-1811 www.mooringspreschool.org

Naples Adventist Christian School PK-8g 2629 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 239-261-6227 www.naplesacs.org

Naples Christian Academy PK-8g 2655 Northbrooke Dr., Naples 239-455-1080 www.napleschristian.net

Naples Classical Academy K-11g 10270 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-449-8773 www.naplesclassical.org

Naples Preschool Academy infant-VPK 1275 Airport Pulling Rd. S., Naples 239-403-7977 www.naplespreschoolacademy.com

Nicaea Academy of Naples PK-12g 14785 Collier Blvd., Naples 239-353-9099 www.nicaeaacademy.com

Nicaea Early Learning Academy PK 2200 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples 239-455-9090 www.nicaeaacademy.com

Optima Classical Academy K-12 2706 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples 239-963-8699 https://online.optimaacademy.org

Peace Early Learning Center 6w-VPK 9850 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-354-9140 www.peacekidsnaples.org

Preschool For the Arts 14m-5y 1789 Mandarin Rd., Naples 239-263- 2620 www.naplespreschoolofthearts.com

Primrose School 6w-K 4510 Executive Dr., Naples 239-774-6767 www.primroseschools.com

Royal Palm Academy

Saint Ann Catholic School

PK3-8g 16100 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-594-9888 www. royalpalmacademy.org

PK3-8g 542 Eighth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-4110 www.stann.net

Salvation Army 1-5y 3180 Estey Ave., Naples 239-417-2315 www.salvationarmyflorida.org/naples

Scribbles Learning Center 1y-VPK 727 108th Ave. N., Naples 239-597-5748 www.facebook.com/scribbleslearning

Seagate Christian School K-12g 1010 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples 239-261-0122 www.seagatebaptist.com

Seacrest Country Day School PK-12g 7100 David Blvd., Naples 239-793-1986 www.seacrest.org

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School PK3-8g 2730 53rd Terrace S.W., Naples 239-455-2262 www.saintelizabethseton.com St. John Neumann High School 9-12g

Temple

The all-new second edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups, and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations ... more super-fun attractions and experiences ... more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com.