NAPLES, Fla. — Gulf Coast Charter Academy South has been recognized as an Everglades Champion School, earning a PreK–5 Silver Level Award from The Everglades Foundation’s Everglades Literacy Program during its very first year of participation.
The designation places Gulf Coast Charter Academy South among just nine schools in Collier County participating in the prestigious Everglades Champion Schools Program, which recognizes schools that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to environmental education, Everglades literacy, and conservation through interdisciplinary learning and school-wide initiatives. The program encourages schools to integrate Everglades education into their curriculum, provide authentic learning experiences, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
As a STEM-focused charter school, Gulf Coast Charter Academy South views environmental education as a natural extension of its mission to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving. Throughout the school year, students explored the unique ecosystems of the Florida Everglades while making meaningful connections across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Teachers incorporated standards-aligned Everglades lessons into classroom instruction, helping students better understand the ecological importance of one of the world’s most significant wetlands and the role they play in protecting Florida’s natural resources.
“This recognition is an incredible accomplishment for our students and staff, especially during our first year participating in the program,” said Ria Ramdath, Principal of Gulf Coast Charter Academy South. “At Gulf Coast, we want our students to become more than great learners; we want them to become thoughtful problem-solvers and responsible citizens. The Everglades Champion Schools Program gave our students authentic opportunities to connect STEM concepts to real-world environmental challenges while developing a deeper appreciation for Florida’s unique ecosystems. We are extremely proud to be recognized for that work.”
The Everglades Champion Schools Program, developed by The Everglades Foundation, empowers schools to make Everglades conservation a core part of their culture by providing professional development for educators, standards-aligned instructional resources, interdisciplinary projects, and opportunities for students to engage in environmental leadership and community involvement. Schools are recognized annually for their efforts to build environmental literacy and inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.
This award also reflects Gulf Coast Charter Academy South’s growing commitment to providing students with meaningful, hands-on STEM learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Through inquiry-based instruction, environmental exploration, and cross-curricular learning, students are developing the knowledge and skills needed to become informed leaders in their communities.
As Gulf Coast Charter Academy South continues expanding its STEM initiatives, the school looks forward to building upon this achievement and strengthening its partnership with the Everglades Literacy Program in the years ahead.
Families interested in learning more about Gulf Coast Charter Academy South or enrollment for the upcoming school year are encouraged to visit GCCAS.org or contact Principal Ramdath directly at rramdath@GCCAS.org.
Gulf Coast Charter Academy South is a public charter school serving students in grades PreK3–8 in Naples, Florida. The school provides a STEM-focused education that emphasizes academic excellence, innovation, leadership, and hands-on learning experiences designed to prepare students for success in college, careers, and life. To apply, visit GCCAS.org/enrollment or call (239) 784-1539.
Beth Staros
bstaros@forzaedu.com
Date Posted: July 22, 2026
