Our Christmases here in Lee County have certainly never been white, but the aftermath of the hurricane has Fort Myers feeling more blue than usual this Holiday season. The impact that Ian has had on this community has been devastating. Whether you grew up in the area or simply have fond memories of visiting Southwest Florida, it was absolutely heartbreaking to see the heart of our city flooded and the beautiful beaches wrecked.
With loss, however, comes hope. It’s the perfect time of year to recount how, through tragedy and devastation, our community has never been closer, and we are all stronger for it. As families, friends, and neighbors come together to rebuild, we are reforming connections after a pandemic that sent us all into isolation.
Against all odds, our children have continued learning in school, providing a tangible hope for the future of our community. A
successful election has brought in three new school board members with whom I
could not be more excited and honored to work. I commend them for joining me in the task of helping our students, teachers, and staff get back to normal.
And we will get back to normal. We’ve weathered storms in the past, and this one is no different. At the Lee County School District, we are working hard to make sure that the next generation of Southwest Floridians are safe, secure, and optimistic enough to use this storm and every other storm they may face as an opportunity to grow; that they see the community coming together, and maintain a spirit of hope in the power that lies in coming together.
I wish you all a wonderful holiday season, and the encouragement that the future of Lee County is bright! Have a safe and happy New Year!
Respectfully submitted,
Melisa W. Giovannelli, School Board Member, District 2