Marco Comes Out to Support Charter Middle School

Proud parents, some of whom attended the Marco Island Charter Middle School during its early years over 25 years ago, gathered together with grandparents, staff members and newer residents at the Marco Island Hilton Beach Resort and Spa Friday evening, March 1st, to show support for the island’s first Charter School.

Starting in 1996, families on Marco Island embraced the concept of Charter Schools and began working diligently to seek the approval of the Collier County School District. That plan successfully laid out the creation of a middle school on Marco Island for those who wished to have their children attend.

That hard work resulted in the School Board granting a three-year contract in March of 1997. That vote took vision, trust and courage regarding the desires of the Marco Island residents to provide an opportunity for their children to not have to leave the island early in the morning and return as the sun began to set as had been done previously.

In June of 2023, the school graduated 102 students and celebrated a significant milestone – its 25th anniversary. Former longtime Principal George Abounader and early School Board Member Paul Tateo were attendees at that monumental graduation. “I’d have to say it was the highlight of my career,” said Abounader, for whom the school gymnasium was dedicated. “The kids, staff members and parents all made for a great recipe for success.”

“The community really came together and made the school a success,” commented Tateo as he reflected on what was the magic ingredient for their realization of the school’s success.

Attendees enjoyed an evening of dancing, dining and great friendship centering around a theme of 

“An Evening In Margaritaville,” while bidding on silent auction items and the purchase of 50/50 tickets, all of which go to supporting the activities not funded by the Collier County School District.

For more information regarding the Marco Island Charter Middle School go to their website at www.micms.org.