Former Governor Jeb Bush declared, "The state of education in Florida is stronger than ever." Southwest Florida schools truly are a testament to that statement. Area schools are among the best in the state when it comes to providing individual assistance to students. School curriculums offer a broad variety of subjects in an attempt to mold a well-rounded student. Literally thousands of students attend class at more than 100 elementary, middle, and high schools around the area. Florida Gulf Coast University, Edison State College, Hodges University, Southwest Florida College, Rasmussen College and Ave Maria University are the area's premier higher learning facilities. Each year, the universities provide a variety of challenging courses and varied majors.

Collier County Public Schools • COLLIER.K12.FL.US
The Collier County School District, located in Southwest Florida, is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools – Council on Accreditation and School Improvement. (239) 377-0001 www.collier.k12.fl.us

Upon moving to Florida, students should be registered for school. Parents can call (239) 334-1102 to find out which school their children will be attending. Students in kindergarten and first grade must provide birth certificates. Proof of residency must be provided (i.e., Declaration of Domicile, proof that a home has been purchased, or living quarters have been leased), social security numbers, a Certificate of Immunization, and proof of a physical examination within the previous year. Students do not need transcripts. the school will send for them.

Collier County Private Schools

Lee County Schools • LEE.K12.FL.US

Colleges and Universities

Ave Maria University • 877-283-8648 • NAPLES.AVEMARIA.EDU

The town of Ave Maria, located west of Naples, was the result of a dream project of Domino's Pizza founder Tom Monihan. There he created Ave Maria University, and the Barron Collier Companies built the new town around it. Ave Maria also has the area’s only law school, currently located off site, but with plans for moving to the main campus.

The charming, semi-circle town center, La Piazza, features various businesses to serve the community. The focal point is the massive marble sculpture that dominates the front of the Oratory. The area is gradually attracting manufacturing and other businesses at nearby business parks, thus ensuring a steady growth of the still young town. it is a charming and very clean city, filled with energy from the many young families, retirees, and others who are residents.

Edison State College • 239-732-3701 • EDISON.EDU

Edison State college, located in Southwest Florida, is a Florida public college offering two and four year undergraduate degree programs. There are campuses in Collier County, Lee County and Charlotte County.

Florida Gulf Coast University • 800-590-3428 • FGCU.EDU

Florida Gulf Coast University, with its innovative programs, technology friendly campus, and outstanding faculty, is one of the most exciting educational environments in America. FGCU, a member of the State university System of Florida, is a comprehensive university created to address the educational needs of the rapidly growing Southwest Florida population. Classrooms showcase state-of-the-art multimedia instructional systems that feature internet access, document cameras, and audio/video presentations.

Hodges University • 239-513-1122 • HODGES.EDU

With campuses in Naples and Fort Myers, Hodges University offers Associate in Science, Bachelor of Science, and master-level degree programs in career-related disciplines. In addition to granting degrees, The college offers continuing education programs which include instruction in English as a second or foreign language and lifelong learning classes for senior citizens. Specifically designed programs and special courses are also available to businesses and professional firms seeking instruction or personalized seminars. They have a Program Participation Agreement with the U.S. Department of Education for eligible students to receive Pell Grants and other federal aid (e.g. direct loans).

Rasmussen College • 239-477-2100 • RASMUSSEN.EDU

The Fort Myers, FL college campus is located in Lee County south of Port Charlotte and just north of Naples and Colonial Boulevard off I-75. with a solid reputation as a popular tourist attraction, the area's employment opportunities continue to rise, giving campus graduates more options for starting their careers. Offering both on campus and online Bachelor's and Associate's degrees, the Fort Myers campus provides students with in-demand degree options in areas such as; medical, business, design and information systems.

Southwest Florida College • 888-526-7973 • SWFC.EDU

Southwest Florida College is an accredited private institution of higher learning that is listening to employers and providing its students with lifetime career placement assistance in today's most demanding career fields. The college is centrally located in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. Career training is offered in fields such as Health Care, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies.