PROVIDED

The School District of Lee County announces that Diplomat Elementary School Principal Chuck Vilardi is being honored with the 2024 University of South Florida College of Education Dean’s Lifetime Achievement Alumni Reward. The Dean’s Lifetime Achievement Alumni Award recognizes an individual who has graduated from the USF College of Education and who has demonstrated long-term contributions, achievement, and service within Education or a related profession.

“I am humbled and honored by this award,” said Chuck Vilardi. “I never looked at my career as a job, but as a gift. This award inspires me to continue finding ways for every child to learn and feel proud of who they are. It reminds me of the importance of being a strong role model and example for the many students I interact with on a daily basis. I grew up in the Lee County School system as a student, and now a principal. I give credit to the many colleagues who mentored me over the years for my success. They made a huge difference in my life. “

Vilardi earned his bachelor’s degree from USF in 1993 and started teaching in the School District of Lee County. In 1997, he earned his master’s degree in educational leadership from USF. He was honored as a Golden Apple Teacher of Distinction and the District’s Teacher of the Year before moving into administration. As principal of Skyline Elementary, the school was named a National Model School. While at The Sanibel School, the school was named a Florida School of Excellence. Diplomat Elementary has been recognized by US News and World Report as one of the Best Elementary Schools during his time there. Vilardi has also been named Principal of the Year by the Lee County Counselor’s Association and by the Teachers Association of Lee County.

“All of these accolades are due to the wonderful teachers and staff members that I have had the honor of working with,” Vilardi said. “They keep me motivated to do better and help me strive to continue finding ways of helping our students. I am proud to say that USF gave me the guidance and tools to become successful.”

Vilardi will be honored at the University of South Florida College of Education alumni awards reception on Wednesday, May 1.