We are excited to announce that Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli, Superintendent of Collier County Public Schools (CCPS), has been selected as a 2024-25 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). This prestigious national recognition honors up to 25 superintendents across the country who demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced leadership with a strong focus on communication.

Dr. Ricciardelli is one of just 25 honorees selected for her innovative and effective use of communication technology to engage and inform our school community. Her leadership has expanded two-way communication and outreach efforts, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed, connected, and empowered. As the 20th superintendent of A-rated CCPS, Dr. Ricciardelli continues to build on her deep understanding of Collier County’s diverse regions, addressing the needs, expectations, and values of our families, students, and staff.

Dr. Ricciardelli’s commitment to excellence in communication has been recognized in Florida as well. In December 2023, the Sunshine State School Public Relations Association (SUNSPRA) presented her with the Outstanding Superintendent Communicator Award.

Under her leadership during the 2023-2024 school year, CCPS achieved remarkable success, with students outperforming state averages on 20 out of 21 assessments, a testament to her commitment to academic excellence and the importance of strong communication in supporting student achievement.

Dr. Ricciardelli was born and raised in Naples, where she attended local public schools – Lake Park Elementary, Gulfview Middle, and Naples High School. Her personal connection to our community fuels her passion for ensuring that every student in Collier County has access to a high-quality education.

We congratulate Dr. Ricciardelli on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her continued dedication to making Collier County Public Schools a model for educational excellence and community engagement.