Sarasota County Schools: Your Guide to Educational Excellence

When choosing a home in Sarasota County, one of the most important factors families consider is the quality of local schools. The good news? Sarasota County Schools has announced that it is the recipient of an overall "A" grade by the Florida Department of Education for the 2023 to 2024 school year. The achievement marks the 21st consecutive year in which the district has maintained the rating. This remarkable consistency makes Sarasota County one of Florida's most trusted educational destinations.

District Overview: A Legacy of Excellence

We are one of two Florida school districts to consistently earn an A-grade every year since 2004. This achievement isn't just about test scores – it reflects the district's comprehensive approach to education that includes strong academic programs, robust arts initiatives, and competitive athletics. 95% of District-managed schools earn grade of "A" or "B" marking historic achievement, demonstrating that excellence isn't limited to just a few standout institutions.

Top Elementary Schools

Lakeview Elementary School (Sarasota) Strengths: The student population of Lakeview Elementary School is 691, and the school serves PK through 5. This school consistently ranks among the top elementary schools in the district, offering a well-rounded curriculum with strong foundational programs.

Phillippi Shores Elementary School (Sarasota) Strengths: Known for its dedicated teaching staff and comprehensive early childhood programs. The school serves the Phillippi Shores area and has built a reputation for individualized attention and strong parent involvement.

Emma E. Booker Elementary School (2350 Dr Martin Luther King Way, Sarasota) Strengths: This school serves a diverse student population and has developed innovative programs to support all learners. The location provides easy access for families in central Sarasota.

Considerations for Elementary Schools: While most elementary schools in the district perform well, some may have larger class sizes due to growing enrollment. Parents should visit potential schools to assess fit for their child's learning style and needs.

Outstanding Middle Schools

Brookside Middle School (Sarasota) Strengths: The student population of Brookside Middle School is 745, and the school serves 6 through 8. This school is known for its strong academic programs and smooth transition support for students moving from elementary to middle school.

Sarasota Middle School Strengths: Sarasota Middle is a large school that is sought out by many kids of our districts. It is kept clean and it acommadates to all technology needs. They have a vast selection of clubs and extracurriculars. The school offers extensive extracurricular options that help students explore their interests.

Considerations for Middle Schools: Some middle schools in the district may have competitive enrollment due to their popularity. The larger schools offer more program variety but may feel less intimate than smaller campuses.

Exceptional High Schools

The district's high school performance is particularly noteworthy. 15 Sarasota County High Schools Make U.S. News 2024 'Best' Ranking, showcasing the breadth of quality options available to families.

Sarasota High School Strengths: Sarasota High School is ranked 371st within Florida. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® coursework and exams. The school offers a comprehensive AP program and has a strong college preparation focus.

Booker High School Strengths: Booker High School is ranked 413rd within Florida. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses and is known for its diverse academic offerings and strong community connections.

Riverview High School (One Ram Way, Sarasota) Strengths: Riverview stands out as one of the premier high schools in the district, offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme since January 1999, Riverview IB is one of 77 Diploma Programs in Florida. The school offers both the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP). In 2014, Riverview became an IB Career-Related School with six IBCP tracks including Marine Science, providing students with both rigorous academics and career-focused pathways.

Considerations for High Schools: While the district offers many excellent high schools, some may have more competitive admission requirements for specialized programs like the IB program at Riverview. Early planning and communication with school counselors is recommended.

Premium Private School Option

The Out-of-Door Academy (ODA) (444 Reid St, Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch Campus) Strengths: The Out-of-Door Academy ranks within the top 20% of private schools in Florida and is recognized as the highest rated private school in Sarasota. This independent pre-K through grade 12 school has over a century of educational excellence, serving 768 students with an impressive 8:1 student-teacher ratio. ODA operates on two campuses - one on Siesta Key and one in Lakewood Ranch (Upper School Uihlein Campus). The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with strong academics, arts, and athletics, including 24 sports programs.

Considerations: As a private institution, ODA requires tuition and fees that vary by grade level. The school's selectivity and smaller size create an intimate learning environment but may have limited availability for enrollment.

School Choice Options

Parents and guardians residing anywhere in the state of Florida will soon be able to apply for their children to attend a public school outside their regular attendance zone through the Controlled Open Enrollment process, more commonly known as School Choice. This flexibility allows families to find the best educational fit for their children, even if it's outside their immediate neighborhood.

What This Means for Homebuyers

The consistent excellence of Sarasota County Schools makes the area highly attractive to families, which positively impacts property values and community stability. Homes in top school zones typically maintain strong resale value and attract motivated buyers when it's time to sell.

Key Considerations:

• Research specific school boundaries for homes you're considering
• Visit schools during the decision-making process, including specialized programs like Riverview's IB program
• Consider both current performance and future capacity needs
• Factor in transportation and commute times to your preferred schools
• For families considering private education, explore ODA's two campus locations and their comprehensive programs

Looking Ahead

The district's commitment to maintaining high standards while adapting to modern educational needs makes Sarasota County an excellent choice for families prioritizing education. Whether you're looking at elementary, middle, or high school options, the consistent "A" rating and strong individual school performance provide confidence in your educational investment.

If you're looking to invest in a home that is in a great school district, check out this Article from Daniel Schuetz a local Realtor.