FORT MYERS, FL (June 2026) – The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, in collaboration with The School District of Lee County, proudly hosted its annual Collegium professional development retreat this past week on Captiva Island, bringing together a group of outstanding educators for an experience dedicated to growth, connection, and appreciation.
A total of 24 educators, including the six 2026 Golden Apple Award recipients, and two administrators took part in this unique week from June 15th through June 19th. Designed to empower and recognize teachers who go above and beyond in their classrooms. Held at the serene ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, Collegium offered a blend of professional enrichment and well-earned relaxation in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in a series of workshops and collaborative sessions focused on innovative teaching strategies, student engagement, and educational leadership. Each attendee earned 40 hours of service learning, contributing to their professional development goals.
“The week was filled with great learning, meaningful connections being made, networking and fun,” said Marshall T. Bower, President & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “These educators represent the best of the best and their dedication to the students they teach was apparent.”
In the evenings, teachers enjoyed beachside relaxation and social events, including dinners at local restaurants such as RC Otter’s Island Eats and Cantina Captiva, along with a memorable cruise to Cabbage Key.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa for graciously hosting our stay. Their beautiful resort provided the perfect setting for rest, reflection, and connection, and their hospitality played a significant role in making this year’s Collegium retreat truly exceptional.
Special thanks go to Sandy Stilwell, CEO of Stilwell Enterprises & Restaurant Group, for her generous hospitality and continued support of Collegium. Her commitment ensures that educators are not only welcomed warmly but treated to an unforgettable weeklong experience.
We would also like to extend our appreciation to Salty Wheels for providing golf cart transportation, The Mucky Duck and Green Flash for their wonderful dining experiences, and Captiva Cruises for helping create memorable moments throughout the retreat. Their generosity and support helped make this year’s Collegium experience truly special for our Golden Apple educators.
The retreat concluded with a celebratory dinner that brought together current and former Golden Apple recipients, Foundation Board Members, business partners, and our generous sponsors — Suncoast Credit Union and The Fred & Jean Allegretti Foundation — all united in their support of Lee County’s educators. We also extend our sincere gratitude to our major Golden Apple sponsors, including Lee Health, Suffolk, Chico’s FAS, FineMark Bank & Trust, The News-Press, Gulf Coast News, McDonald’s, Waste Pro, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and Owen-Ames-Kimball, whose continued support helps us celebrate and honor teaching excellence across Lee County.
About The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Inc. is a private 501(C)3 organization established in 1986. Its mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators through programs, resources, and experiences made possible through corporate, individual, and educational partnerships. Find us online at www.leeschoolfoundation.org, on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
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Media Contact:
Marshall T. Bower, Esq.
President and CEO
Tel. (239) 337-0433
Marshall@LeeSchoolFoundation.org