20 minute read
MAGNET AND SCHOOL CHOICE
MAGNET AND CHOICE: Find Your Child’s Dream School!
by Laura Cross, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Mark your calendars! The first magnet and choice window for the 2022-2023 school year is nearly upon us! The window opens Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. and closes Dec. 11 at 11:59 p.m. This is the first opportunity for our families to apply for a school of their choice for the 2022 school year. Remember it is not first come, first served. The family who applies on the last day of the window has as much chance of getting into their choice school as the family who applies on the first day. So this means, do your homework!
YOU CAN START NOW:
Though the window isn’t open yet, check out the great schools and programs we have to offer by going to www.HillsboroughSchools.org/Magnet. On that site, you can check out all the elementary, middle and high school magnet offerings as well as answers to our most frequently asked questions.
We also have some exciting events coming up over the next few months to help our families better understand the application process and gain an even deeper understanding of our incredible schools. Please be aware, the following events are supposed to be in-person but because of COVID-19 they may end up being virtual. Continue to monitor our website for further details. STEMTASTIC: Oct. 6 from 5:30-7 p.m. MAGNET SCHOOLS KICKOFF EXPO: Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EXPLORE MAGNET SCHOOLS: Nov. 18 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. ENGAGE IN MAGNET SCHOOLS: Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The following events are already scheduled to be held virtually. You can register for these events on our website as the date draws nearer:
MAGNET 101: Oct. 14 from 6-7 p.m. MAGNET EXPLORATION NIGHT: Nov. 11 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. MAGNET EXPLORATION NIGHT: Dec. 2 from 6-7 p.m. MAGNET 101: Dec. 9 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. APPLYING IS EASY!
Just go to the magnet website and in the upper left corner, you will see “Apply.” But remember, you can’t apply until the window opens on Oct. 29.
If you have any questions about the choice and magnet application process, the Office of Student Planning and Placement is here to help. Call 813272-4692 on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Also, our schools LOVE to boast about themselves! If you have questions about a particular school, give them a call! Our staff understands choosing the right school for your child is a gigantic decision and they will be more than happy to talk with you about all the great programs and classes they have to offer.
LINCOLN ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)
1207 E. Renfro St., Plant City 33563 813-757-9329; lincoln.mysdhc.org
We prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more. Enrollment: 501 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
LOCKHART ELEMENTARY MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)
3719 N. 17th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5727; lockhart.mysdhc.org
Students learn using the latest technology, such as STEM tools, LEGO robotics and flight simulators. The national Project Lead the Way program engages students in hands-on activities, projects and problems that are reflective of real-world challenges. Students engage with robotics experiences, engineering challenges, outdoor learning and wildlife habitats. Enrollment: 387 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
LOMAX ELEMENTARY MAGNET (GIFTED TALENT ACADEMY)
4207 26th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5569; lomax.mysdhc.org
Students are active thinking and learning citizens, engaging their minds with Math Olympiad, TiViTz, chess, Future Problem Solvers and Odyssey of the Mind. We embrace the arts with World Drumming, violin and Little Kids Rock; build with LEGO and VEX Robotics; and grow through Student Ambassadors and National Honor Society. Enrollment: 390 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
MACFARLANE PARK ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)
1721 N. MacDill Ave., Tampa 33607 813-356-1760; macfarlanepark.mysdhc.org
As the #1 Elementary Magnet School in America in 2020, we offer students a unique and unbelievable experience. We prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students study global cultures, engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more. Enrollment: 370 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
MARSHALL MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)
18 S. Maryland Ave., Plant City 33563 813-757-9360; hillsboroughschools.org/marshall
Marshall IB students are guided by the International Baccalaureate program. The school is an IB Candidate School with authorization on the close horizon. Students can engage in STEM, robotics, culinary arts, Math League and AVID college readiness. Optional Scholar Quest high school credit courses offer additional rigor. Enrollment: 911 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
MONTESSORI ACADEMIES Multiple Locations in Temple Terrace and Tampa montessoriacademies.com
A place where children love to learn through hands-on lessons and are allowed to progress at their own pace. Foreign Language lessons in both Chinese and Spanish are included. Come see what makes us unique! Enrollment: 115-190 Class-Size: average 25 Grades: 12mo to grade 5 Tuition: $8,200-$9,500
MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 17524 Lakeshore Road, Lutz 33558 813-933-4750; mtctampa.org
A private elementary in Lutz serving K-8, our mission is to develop young people who strive for academic excellence, respect the dignity of each individual and foster service to others. We are committed to continuing our tradition of academic excellence by providing a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing Christ-centered environment. Guided by the example of Jesus and our patroness, Mother Teresa, we strive to develop a dedication of service to others and a devotion to the Catholic faith. Enrollment: 420 Class-Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $6,865-$8,235
(VISUAL, PERFORMING, COMMUNICATION ARTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)
13615 N. 22nd St., Tampa 33613 813-558-1355; muller.mysdhc.org
The only elementary magnet school to host TWO programs--arts and environmental science--Muller Magnet meets the needs of students of all interests! Daily, students experience strings, dance, music and art classes. They engage in the orchestra and rock band, performance groups and our annual musical. Students can explore the outdoor classroom, global gardens and take part in the National Honor Society and student government.
NORTH TAMPA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel 33544 813-991-0801; northtampaca.com
North Tampa Christian Academy (NTCA) is an accredited college preparatory private school, serving students in grades K - 12. Located in Wesley Chapel on 44 acres, NTCA provides immersive on-campus education that encourages innovation through project-based learning and an engaging thematic structure. When life demands flexibility for an off-campus option, we also provide the Titan Teacher Network, a "teacher-centric" live online learning experience.
NORTH TAMPA CHRISTIAN EXPLORERS PRESCHOOL 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel 33544 813-991-0820; northtampaca.com/preschool
We support young children as they develop skills of exploring, choosing, creating and solving for God’s glory. Children are challenged to stretch themselves and persevere as they make sense of the world around them. Our safe and secure facility is nature-inspired, diverse and family oriented.
ODESSA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 19521 Michigan Ave., Odessa 33556 813-792-1825; odessachristianschool.org
OCS is a Christ-focused school for motivated learners who want to dive into learning through self-directedness, deep projects and mastery. Using inquiry, collaboration, exploration and discussion with traditional and blended tools as well as field trips and travel, students gain responsibility, perseverance and confidence in learning and public speaking.
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
3415 16th St., Tampa 33605 813-276-5717; hillsboroughschools.org/orangegrove
Be a shining star at Orange Grove, where high academic achievement meets creativity. Our historic campus includes two professional dance studios, video production, visual arts with a MAC lab and exceptional music and technical theater suites. We help our students prepare for their next step if they choose to apply to Blake High School or to hone their skills so they can "wow" their families. Our kids get a well-rounded education.
PAIDEIA CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7834 N. 56th St., Tampa 33617 813-988-7700; paideiatampa.com
Paideia Classical Christian School is a community of parents and teachers who share a commitment for educating children to love learning and grow in godliness. We are intentional about developing passionate disciples, exceptional scholars and virtuous citizens. As a nationally accredited, classical school, we employ time-proven curriculum and methods of education which teach students not primarily what to think, but how to think: thoroughly, maturely and biblically.
PALM HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2355 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor 34683 727-786-1854; palmharbormontessori.com
Palm Harbor Montessori Academy offers the highest quality individualized Montessori experience in the Tampa area. With innovative programs for children from 12 months to 8th grade, our talented and passionate teachers provide an education that nurtures the whole mind, including critical thinking, emotional intelligence and physical wellbeing. Enrollment: 439 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 400 Class-Size: varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $13,745 - $18,230
Enrollment: 135 Class-Size: varies by age Grades: six weeks to PreK Tuition: $115-390 per month
Enrollment: 50 Class-Size: 25 max Grades: 1-12 Tuition: $10,000-$11,000
Enrollment: 556 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 86 Class-size: Varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $7,930-$8,699
Enrollment: 220
Class-Size: Toddler 10:2; Preprimary 20:2; Primary to middle school, max of 22:2 Grades: 12 mo. - 14 years Tuition: $500-$1,540 per month depending on age and program
PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 33602 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org
At the Patel Conservatory, every student deserves the opportunity to discover their creative potential. Our programs provide training in dance, theater and music. Camps and classes vary by length, age and skill level. Patel Conservatory classes require active learning participation by students and result in a performance.
PEPIN ACADEMIES | pepinacademies.com 3916 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa 33610; 813-236-1755 9304 Camden Field Parkway, Riverview 33578; 813-533-2999 7710 Osteen Road, New Port Richey 34653; 727-233-2961
Pepin Academies are non-profit, tuition-free, independent public charter schools serving students with learning and learning-related disabilities. Qualified as Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center schools, we provide a diversified curriculum driven by the student’s needs in a positive educational environment, as well as a transitional job training program for post-high school students who choose to defer receipt of their diploma.
PINELLAS PREPARATORY ACADEMY 2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo 33771 727-536-3600; pinellasprep.org
Pinellas Preparatory Academy is a high performing, "A" rated, tuition free K-8 public charter school. Besides our strong academics, you will find a culture of strong character and community. The school focuses on developing the talents of each student, while emphasizing high academic standards.
PROGRESS VILLAGE MIDDLE MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
8113 Zinnia Drive, Tampa 33619 813-671-5110; hillsboroughschools.org/progressvillage
We are proud to offer the largest dance and culinary arts programs in Hillsborough County. We're routinely recognized as a Magnet School of America national award winner and show our craft to organizations and events around the district. Students can try exciting electives such as Costume and Fashion Design, orchestra, journalism and more. The spotlight shines on students at Progress Village.
RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES )
802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; rampello.mysdhc.org
Join us for experiential learning with walking field trips through downtown Tampa, and a differentiated instruction focus to meet the needs of all learners. We have strong community partnerships and school-wide AVID instructional strategies. Middle school electives include: Band/Jazz/Orchestra/Steel Drums, Art 2-D and 3-D, Spanish and Creative Writing.
RIVERHILLS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)
405 Riverhills Drive, Temple Terrace 33617 813-987-6911; riverhills.mysdhc.org
Located on the Hillsborough River, with all the science potential and experiment potential that implies, we prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, Inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.
RIVERVIEW ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9906 Symmes Road, Riverview 33578 813-412-6111; riverviewacademy.com
The tuition-free, public charter school proudly serves students from kindergarten through middle school with a well-rounded college preparatory education. The rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere, and a focus on character development. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation. Enrollment: 1,000 Class-size: Varies by program Grades: All ages and skill levels Tuition: Varies by program
Enrollment: 1,200+ students between three campuses Class-Size: 13:2 Grades: 3-12 and a Transition Program for ages 18-22 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 800 Class-Size: K-3 18, 4-8 22 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 953 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 777 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 529 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET (CAMBRIDGE CANDIDATE)
11910 Tucker Road, Riverview 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers
Rodgers, an authorized Cambridge International Magnet School, offers learning guided by the rigorous, world renowned Cambridge Pathways philosophy. Located in Riverview's Bell Creek Nature Preserve, we embrace and empower the whole student. Several National Board-Certified Teachers highlight our exceptional team of educators. Ask us about our Cambridge Honors Institute if you choose to apply!
ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)
1510 N. Manhattan Ave., Tampa 33607 813-872-5212; rolandpark.mysdhc.org
We inspire young inquiring minds to become compassionate, lifelong learners and internationally-minded people with respect for various cultures and a desire to serve others. Students can experience inquiry-based learning centers, transdisciplinary units of study, an outdoor classroom with an international garden, a strings program and world languages.
SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com
Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence.
SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
1908 2nd Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; shore.mysdhc.org
We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the Annual Arts Festival and school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama, STEAM Engineering and robotics programs. Our partnership with the Straz Performing Arts Center brings Broadway to our students--something you will find at no other school!
SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL 5101 1st St. NE., St. Petersburg 33703 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org
Founded in 1923, Shorecrest is a coed, nonsectarian, PK3-12 independent school in St. Petersburg, FL. In a safe, student-centered environment, Shorecrest educates a diverse community of students to become lifelong learners in the pursuit of personal and academic excellence, physical well-being, creative achievement and the development of a commitment to social responsibility.
SIMMONS CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 1202 W. Grant St., Plant City 33563 813-707-7430; hillsboroughschools.org/simmons
Simmons Career Acceleration Academy High School in Plant City serves students 9-12, providing a school culture focused on academic achievement, personal growth, and preparing students for a successful future after high school. Students experience a hybrid learning approach, career preparation through industry certifications, and a streamlined path to graduation. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school.
SKYCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33765 727-797-1186; skycrestchristianschool.org
The value of a Skycrest education is immeasurable. School graduates enter their high school years with outstanding academic preparation, leadership skills and confidence in their ability to succeed. With newly integrated technology, an extensive list of extracurricular activities and a small student/teacher ratio, a Skycrest education is available at amazingly competitive rates. Enrollment: 823 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 150 Class-size: 12-18 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $9,800-$16,650
Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 995 Class-Size: 16-18 Grades: PK3-12 Tuition: $12,670 - $28,460
Enrollment: 250 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: 22 Grades: K4-grade 8 Tuition: $11,000+ fees
(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)
2011 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33610 813-276-5596; hillsboroughschools.org/sligh
Join a culture of future health professionals whose uniforms are doctors' scrubs four days a week. We are preparing students for one of the fastest growing career fields in the country. Electives engage all students with Career and Technical Education, Family and Consumer Science and our AVID college readiness program.
SOUTH COUNTY CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 2810 John Sherman Way, Ruskin 33570 813-233-3335; hillsboroughschools.org/sccc
South County Career Center offers an accelerated program to any high school student to either earn previously lost credits or to accelerate in current courses using Edgenuity. We currently offer Automotive program as well as Agriculture as electives.
SOUTH TAMPA ACADEMY AT MONROE MIDDLE MAGNET
(IB CANDIDATE)
4716 Montgomery Ave., Tampa 33616 813-272-3020; hillsboroughschools.org/monroe
We develop active learners and internationally-minded students. Students will be guided by the International Baccalaureate World School Philosophy. Students can pursue unique electives like computer modeling and simulation. Our sixth grade structure creates a supportive middle school transition. We are the only middle magnet school in South Tampa and prepare our students to potentially step into the halls of Robinson IB!
ST. CECELIA INTERPAROCHIAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1350 Court St., Clearwater 33756 727-461-1207; st-cecelia.org
St. Cecelia (SCS) is a two-time recipient of the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award, both in 2020 and 2010. SCS is also Pinellas county’s only private school to offer the International Baccalaureate to students in grades PreK-3 to grade 8. Through the IB Programme we provide tools, develop character and teach skills that prepare our students to thrive in high school, college and beyond. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our students’ educational and personal success and to the betterment of our local and global communities.
ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 1002 S. Rome Ave., 906 S. Orleans Ave., 240 S. Plant Ave., Tampa 33606 813-849-4200; stjohnseagles.org
Located in the heart of Tampa, St. John's Episcopal School delivers an unparalleled, values-driven, progressive education for children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Hard work, faith, respect, honesty and a commitment to excellence allow our graduates to thrive in high school, college and beyond.
ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5223 N. Himes Ave., Tampa 33614 813-879-5090; stlawrencecatholicschool.org
Celebrating 60 years of Catholic Education since 1961, St. Lawrence Catholic School provides a Christ-centered environment inspiring students from Early Childhood through grade 8 toward academic excellence to become life-long learners. 21st Century classrooms promote creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. Fully accredited by the FCC, with a strong curriculum exceeding Diocesan, state and national standards in academics, art, music, physical education, Spanish, technology, STREAM and media.
ST. MARY’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2101 S. Hubert Ave., Tampa 33629 813-258-5508; smeds.org
St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School provides challenging academics, performing and visual arts, competitive athletics, technology, public speaking, world languages, global studies, community service, religious education and more. St. Mary’s highly-qualified pre-K through 8th grade faculty inspires students to achieve their best, developing into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead. Enrollment: 579 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 200 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 432 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 425 Class-size: 12-24 students depending on grade level Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $7,120-$7,918
Enrollment: 525 Class-Size: 17 Grades: K4-8 Tuition: $14,660 - $15,190
Enrollment: 495 Class-Size: < 25 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,250 - $11,445
Enrollment: 450 Class-Size: 20 Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $16,600
ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGIATE HIGH SCHOOLS St. Petersburg: 6605 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg 33710 | 727-341-4610 Tarpon Springs: 600 Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs 34689 | 727-712-5891 spchs.spcollege.edu
St. Petersburg Collegiate High Schools offer a supportive educational experience with all the benefits of high school and college. Students thrive at SPCHS as successful learners and leaders. SPCHS students graduate with their high school diploma, an Associate’s degree, and the skills for continued success. Best of all, it’s free!
STEWART MIDDLE MAGNET (NASA EXPLORER SCHOOL)
1125 Spruce St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5691; hillsboroughschools.org/stewart
Be part of one of the only nationally recognized NASA Explorer Schools in the country! Through our Project Lead the Way curriculum, students choose from electives like aerospace and engineering. Stewart partners with NASA, NOAA and the U.S. Air Force for real-world learning. Our location on the Hillsborough River and next to Blake and near Dunbar Magnet add to the opportunities our students enjoy every day!
TAMPA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 4630 N. Rome Ave., Tampa 33603 813-870-0860; tampacatholic.org
Tampa Catholic High School is a co-educational school of the Diocese of St. Petersburg dedicated to providing students with “Veritas et Caritas” (truth and charity) through educational excellence in a Christ centered environment. Its curriculum reinforces critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, problem solving and depth of understanding necessary for 21st-century learners.
TAMPA DAY SCHOOL 12606 Henderson Road, Tampa 33625 813-269-2100; tampadayschool.com
Celebrating 50 years of meeting the needs of bright students with Dyslexia, ADHD or anxiety, TDS offers a uniquely designed college-prep curriculum. With small class sizes, instruction incorporates interactive and handson experiences, along with an emphasis on study and organizational skills, promoting success and improved confidence. Contact us to learn more!
TAMPA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY)
3719 N. 17th St., Tampa 33610 (temporary) 813-276-5405; tampaheights.mysdhc.org
Our students become innovative thinkers who achieve academically and socially through our seven Wonders—leadership, environment, economics, wellness, innovation, communication and culture. Students can participate in Model United Nations and Odyssey of the Mind, learn world languages and leadership, and experience cultural clusters such as yoga, cooking, African art and LEGO makerspace.
TAMPA PREP 727 W. Cass St., Tampa 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org
There’s a culture of creativity here, a willingness to try new ideas – anything that better serves students. We are Florida’s Most Innovative School, where students graduate uniquely prepared to succeed in a world of accelerating change. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, we’re here to inspire the next great creators.
VALRICO LAKE ADVANTAGE ACADEMY 13306 Boyette Road, Riverview 33569 813-699-5049; valricoacademy.com
A tuition-free, public charter school proudly serving students in kindergarten through fifth Grade, the school provides a well-rounded elementary foundation through a challenging curriculum with a focus on teaching math and science in proven and innovative instructional methods preparing students for their secondary education and beyond. We are an “A” rated Florida School of Excellence offering the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies. Cognia accredited. Enrollment: 240 per location Class-Size: grade 10 average of 18, grades 1112 varies by course Grades: 10-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 1,024 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 725 Class-size: 24 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $12,000 - $15,000
Enrollment: 150 class-Size: 10-12 Grades: 3-8 Tuition: $21,000
Enrollment: 308 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 700 Class-size: 15 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: $24,788 - $25,683
Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
VANGUARD SCHOOL 22000 US Highway 27, Lake Wales 33859 863-676-6091; vanguardschool.org
The Vanguard School is a co-educational boarding and day school for students in grades 6-12. Vanguard specializes in educating students who experience academic learning challenges in an environment that works with academic strategies, executive functioning, social skills, celebrates student strengths and assists in transitioning into higher educational opportunities and independent living. Enrollment: 100 boarding, up to 120 total Class-size: 6-10 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: 7-day $49,000; 5-day $43,000; Day $25,500
WALKER MIDDLE MAGNET (IB)
8282 N. Mobley Road, Odessa 33556 813-631-4726; hillsboroughschools.org/walker
We develop creative and confident learners. Communication, reflection and whole-child learning energize Walker Middle Magnet, Odessa's IB World School. As a Magnet School of Distinction, students are exposed to a rigorous curriculum. High-impact teachers and our Florida Power School Library highlight our exceptional, highly-rated team of educators. Enrollment: 984 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
WESTLAKE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1551 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor 34683 727-781-3808; westlakechristianschool.org
Westlake Christian School, a National Blue Ribbon School, is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Cognia. Westlake’s mission is to help students develop in their faith, academics, fine arts and athletics. Westlake serves approximately 425 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase and surrounding communities. Enrollment: 475 Class-size: 1:18 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $8,950-$9,275
WILLIAMS MIDDLE MAGNET (IB)
5020 N. 47th St., Tampa 33610 813-744-8600; hillsboroughschools.org/williams
We are a top-ranked IB World School, earning an A-grade for nearly 20 years! We create global learners focused on intercultural awareness and communication. Scholar Quest high school credit offerings challenge students in French, algebra and emerging technology in business. Connect through clubs including LEGO Robotics, Model UN, Future Business Leaders of America and our award-winning Chess Club. Enrollment: 841 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
YOUNG MIDDLE MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)
1807 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Tampa 33610 813-276-5739; hillsboroughschools.org/young
We empower creative learners with our Project Lead the Way STEM curriculum. We focus on engineering, sustainability and "Global Planting"— engaging students in hands-on learning with an on-campus hydroponic farm and greenhouse, along with student-constructed rain gardens. Students learn using state-of-the-art technology, including touch-enabled whiteboards and 3-D printers. Enrollment: 654 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
