Community Comes Out to Support MICMS Event

Twenty-three years ago, our community witnessed what would have been a great feat for any small community. That was the year the Marco Island Charter Middle School (MICMS) evolved from being a concept to opening its original doors to provide parents here on Marco an opportunity for their children to continue their education in grades six through eighth grade right here on the island.

That came about due to the determination, focus, commitment and arduous work of a group of volunteers pulling together to do what some doubted would be possible at the time.

A three-year contract with the Collier County School Board was approved on March 19, 1998, by a unanimous vote of the board. That vote took vision, trust and courage regarding the desires of the Marco Island residents to provide an opportunity for their children not to have to leave the island early in the morning and return as the sun was beginning to set over the Gulf of Mexico.

Today’s children and their parents might not be aware of the wonderful work done by those from the past. They might not even know that the first 198 students attending MICMS had classes in 14 trailer modules, and didn’t have a gymnasium or a music room. Some take it for granted that the wonderful structure that sits on Trinidad Avenue and serves as today’s home for the proud Marco Island Eagles was always there.

It has been through the challenging work of community leaders, parents and educators that makes this facility one of the great assets of our community. Those efforts and the commitment of the community to support the school were again on display as parents and staff hosted a festive Casino Night to help raise much-needed funds to fill the gap left by the 98 cents on a dollar they receive for funding through the county. The county keeps two percent of those funds to help cover “administrative costs” on their end. 

Many activities which are covered within the county school system are not covered for charter schools, and those items are provided by fundraising and parents’ volunteer hours to help provide for those expenses.

Michele Wheeler, the Principal of MICMS, was all smiles on Friday evening as she greeted parents, grandparents and community members to the Casino Night event and thanked them for their support. She has had two children go through MICMS, providing her with a unique perspective of the challenges.

Deborah Hobbs, one of the school’s board members, welcomed the attendees. Hobbs was a member of the committee that arranged for the fun evening which included games of chance, silent auction opportunities and, of course, delicious light snacks provided by Davide’s Italian Café. Attendees also were entertained by Shane Totten and his son Elliott, a talented musician himself.