It had been almost six months since Collier County Public Schools last had students on its campuses. As the sun rose Monday morning (August 31), principals across the county eagerly awaited the smiling ‘eyes’ that would soon walk through their doors for the first day of school. With this excitement top of mind, I asked elementary principals here in Immokalee to share what they love about their job, as well as any advice they had for parents during these unique times.

“I am so honored to be joining the Immokalee community for my second year as principal of Village Oaks Elementary (VOE),” exclaims Bev Budzynski. “Last year was a great year, even with the abrupt change to virtual learning. We do not know what the future holds, but what I do know is that VOE is ready for anything. We definitely live up to our motto, ‘Whatever It Takes!’”

“In times like these, it’s an extreme honor to work with teachers,” adds Joy Alvarez, principal of Lake Trafford Elementary. “They always rise to the occasion, no matter the situation. Through all of the challenges and changes, I have not heard one complaint from a teacher. They have figured out how to make it work better than I could imagine.”

Pinecrest Elementary’s principal Laura Mendicino adds, “We are in uncertain times, unable to predict what will happen with the pandemic or how the year will go. Fortunately, one thing you can count on is the schoolhouse. We have been waiting for the return of our students since we left school unexpectedly in March and are excited to hit the ground running.”

Margaux Horne, principal at Highlands Elementary, offers this piece of advice to families, “Remember the ‘Seven Habits.’ Have students establish their ‘Big Rocks’ and ensure they complete their goals. Also set expectations for good hygiene habits and mask wearing. Help students understand that when we are healthy, we are in school; and when we are in school, we can achieve. All of this comes from an understanding that every student has greatness, every student can lead, and change begins with me!”

Eden Park Elementary’s Mark Frehe feels fortunate to serve as the school’s principal at this time, “It is so rewarding to see students learn and progress towards meeting their full potential. I also really love working with teachers to help them improve upon their practice through a lens of reflecting on past experiences to learn and grow from them.”

Mendicino concludes, and I think the rest would agree, “We want parents to know that their child’s safety, health, and education are our top priorities. We are truly honored and take value in the fact that our parents instill their trust in us each and every day.”

With these leaders at the helm, along with the support, dedication, and perseverance of our teachers and support staff, we expect this to be a great 2020-2021 school year!