Community School of Naples: A Premier Independent College Preparatory Institution
The Community School of Naples (CSN) is a distinguished independent, college preparatory day school located in Naples, Florida. Known for blending a rigorous academic curriculum with a nurturing environment, the school serves a diverse student body from early learning through 12th grade. CSN is recognized as one of the top private schools in Florida, ranking within the top 20% of institutions in the state.
Academic Philosophy and Curriculum
CSN provides a comprehensive educational journey starting from Pre-K3 through grade 12. The school’s approach varies by developmental stage to ensure students grow both academically and emotionally:
- Early Learning: The school implements a philosophy of “Purposeful Play,” integrating meaningful lessons into playtime to foster early development.
- Middle School: Students can explore a wide array of electives designed to spark interest in diverse fields, including STEM, Competitive Robotics, Introduction to Game Programming and Design, Art, Concert Band, and Yoga.
- Upper School: As a college preparatory institution, CSN offers a challenging curriculum that includes AP courses to prepare students for higher education.
Campus and Facilities
The school operates on an expansive 77-acre campus featuring 26 buildings. This infrastructure supports a student population of more than 1,075 students, providing ample space for both classroom instruction and outdoor activities.
Beyond the Classroom: Arts, Athletics, and Tradition
CSN emphasizes the development of the whole child through extensive extracurricular programming:
- Athletics: Represented by the Seahawk mascot, the school offers over 40 different teams across 22 various sports for students in grades 6-12.
- The Arts: The visual arts, music, and theatre programs are central to the CSN experience, intended to build self-esteem and confidence while encouraging creative exploration.
- Community Traditions: “Buddy Day” is a cherished tradition where Upper School students visit Lower School students to read, learn, and play together, fostering a sense of mentorship and community.
History and Leadership
Founded in 1982 by a group of parents, CSN began with fewer than 50 students in K-5 classes held in rented church accommodations. Sam Hazard served as the first Head of School. While the high school was briefly discontinued in 1986 due to financial reasons, it was reinstated in 1992.
The school is currently led by Paul Selvidio, who was named the sixth Head of CSN on July 1, 2025.
Accreditations and Recognition
CSN maintains high standards of educational quality through various prestigious memberships and accreditations, including:
- Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS)
- National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
- AdvanceED
- Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG)
- European Council of International Schools (ECIS)
- School Year Abroad (SYA)
Key Takeaways for Prospective Families
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 13275 Livingston Road, Naples, FL 34109 |
| Grades Served | Pre-K3 through 12th Grade |
| Mottoes | “Opportunity of a Lifetime,” “Dedicated to Academic Excellence,” “Every Student, Every Day” |
| School Colors | Blue, Black, and White |
| Campus Size | 77 acres with 26 buildings |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the school’s mascot and publication?
The school mascot is the Seahawk, and its official publication is titled The Chronicle.
How can I contact the school?
The Community School of Naples can be reached by phone at (239) 597-7575 or via their official website.
What makes the CSN environment unique?
CSN is driven by a commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, shaped by a spirit of community and collaboration. It focuses on nurturing each student’s individual talents and sense of self-worth.
As CSN continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its culture of stewardship and its mission to provide every student, every day, with a rigorous and supportive educational experience.