Return to Headlines

THE FUTURE OF LORENZO WALKER TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL

 

 
Having trouble viewing this email?  VIEW IN BROWSER
 
 
 
 
 
May 30, 2024
 
Dear Students, Parents, Staff, and Community Members,
 
The transition from one school year to the next presents an opportunity to communicate the future vision for educational options offered by Lorenzo Walker Technical High School (LWTH). Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) operates technical college campuses in both Naples and Immokalee, and the specialized training provided at these sites is vital to our local workforce for equipping high school students and adults with skills in high-demand careers. It is our vision to increase access to technical education across Collier County. Each year, there is a significant wait list for enrollment in our technical programs. I often hear from our business community through conversations and advisory councils about the need to increase access in order to develop a highly-trained local workforce.
 
With that mission in mind, CCPS has made the decision to change the model with which we provide access to post-secondary technical college training for high school students. This year’s incoming Grade 9 students, the Class of 2028, will be the final incoming freshman class of LWTH. This transition will enable juniors and seniors from all high schools to participate in career dual enrollment on the Lorenzo Walker campus beginning in the fall of 2026. This model already exists at iTECH and more closely resembles the current CCPS dual enrollment programming at Florida SouthWestern State College.
 
I understand this news may be met with a range of emotions, and I want to assure you that we are dedicated to supporting all members of the LWTH community throughout the next several years of transition. I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to our dedicated faculty and staff who work tirelessly to create a supportive and enriching learning environment. There will be no staffing or programming changes for the 2024-2025 school year. Furthermore, we will include faculty and staff in the transition planning, which will begin in earnest this coming winter.
 
These decisions are driven by our commitment to providing the best possible educational opportunities, ultimately leading to the development of a world-class training center in support of trade and technical learning. The passion and commitment from staff, volunteers, and community partners on our Lorenzo Walker campus has and will continue to make a difference in our community. As we embark on this new chapter, I trust we will remain united in our shared commitment to academic excellence, student success, and career readiness. Thank you for your understanding, support, and dedication.
 
Sincerely,
 
Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli
Superintendent
 
 
 
If you have questions or feedback, please email info@collierschools.com.
 
Collier County Public Schools
p: (239) 377-0001
 
School Board
Ms. Kelly Mason, Chair • Mrs. Stephanie Lucarelli, Vice Chair
Mr. Erick Carter, Member • Mr. Tim Moshier, Member • Mr. Jerry Rutherford, Member
 
Superintendent
Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli
 
Copyright © 2024 Collier County Public Schools