UPDATE - August 18, 2023

Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) continues to monitor weather forecasts in order to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff. Based on forecasts from the National Weather Service, while Collier County remains under a Heat Advisory, they predict heat indices will be lower next week. Therefore, starting on Monday (8/21), CCPS will resume outdoor student activities during the school day and at CCPS-run after-school programs.

Due to the ongoing Heat Advisory, the following accommodations will be made:

• Student outdoor activities will be limited to a maximum of 20 consecutive minutes.
• Students and staff will have access to water before and after outdoor activities.
• Outdoor shaded areas will be used when possible.

Please keep the following tips in mind:

• Advise your child to immediately report any symptoms of nausea or headache during outside activities to the nearest staff member.
• Ensure your child comes to school dressed appropriately for the weather, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing.
• Have your child apply sunscreen before arriving at school.
• Provide your child with a labeled water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

We will continue to monitor forecasts as next week progresses and will provide updates as needed.

Thank you for your partnership in ensuring the well-being of our students. By working together, we can create a safe and comfortable learning environment even in the face of challenging weather conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school principal.

Recognizing the potential risks associated with high temperatures, we have established a comprehensive plan to address heat-related illnesses and modify outdoor activities as necessary, including:

• Weather Monitoring: Our administration closely monitors weather forecasts and heat advisories from reliable sources. We rely on these alerts to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with or cancel outdoor activities.
  
  
• Heat Index Guidelines: We follow specific heat index guidelines recommended by health authorities to determine safe levels for outdoor activities. If the heat index reaches a certain threshold, we may cancel or modify outdoor activities to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
  
  
• Communication: If outdoor activities are canceled or modified, we will promptly communicate these changes to parents and guardians. We will use our automated messaging system, the school website, and social media platforms to ensure you are informed in a timely manner.
  
  
• Hydration and Shade: When outdoor activities proceed, we emphasize the importance of staying hydrated. Students are encouraged to bring water bottles, and water stations are available. We also prioritize shaded areas for students to rest and cool down.
  
  
• Physical Education Modifications: Our physical education teachers are equipped with strategies to modify outdoor activities based on the heat index. This includes adjusting the intensity and duration of activities and allowing for more frequent water breaks.

Please ensure your child comes to school dressed appropriately for the weather, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, and applying sunscreen before arriving. Additionally, we encourage you to provide your child with a labeled water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Thank you for your partnership in ensuring the well-being of our students. By working together, we can create a safe and comfortable learning environment even in the face of challenging weather conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school principal.