Moving is an exciting, and sometimes chaotic, time in a family’s life. And one of the most pressing questions that comes with moving when you have school-age children is “where should they go to school?”
Well, if you happen to be headed to the Sunshine State, and want to know where you can find the best schools in Florida, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll be running down the best school districts in Florida, and while we’re at it, Moving Squad can provide you with a free quote for your big move.
Okaloosa County Schools
In the panhandle of Florida you will find the Okaloosa County School District. This midsize suburb district has a student population of just over 32,450, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 17.45 students per classroom.
The Okaloosa County Schools serve students from pre-K to adult with stellar programs available at:
- 23 elementary schools
- 12 middle schools
- 8 high schools
- 7 K-8 or K-12 community schools
- 1 Best Chance North
- 5 charter/contract schools
- 1 STEMM Academy
In addition to the curriculum that follows the Florida State Standards, Okaloosa has multiple advanced academic opportunities available as well as phenomenal Career and Technical Education programs. All of these services result in a well-rounded education and a 90% graduation rate.
Indian River County School District
Also known as the School District of Indian River, their motto and mission say it all. Through their mission of “transforming education to inspire & empower ALL students to maximize their full potential,” their district stays “STRONGER TOGETHER.”
Located about midway down the east coast of Florida, this community enjoys the pleasures of pristine beaches and the proximity to Kennedy Space Center just 75 miles north, along with many other wondrous educational experiences.
This small (by Florida standards, with only 17,871 students) yet diverse student population has a 92% graduation rate, and is also highlighted by accomplishments such as:
- Recipient of the Pacesetter Award
- International Baccalaureate Program available at elementary, middle, and high school levels
- Award-winning performing arts programs
- High school ROTC programs
St Johns County School District
Data compiled by Niche.com ranked St Johns County School District as the best schools in Florida for the 2021 school year, and the district is home to three of the top high schools in the nation.
In the 2018-2019 round of Florida Standards Assessment testing, St Johns School District had a passing rate of 88% across all grades. Another stellar indication of the success of this district is that it has a 94.3% graduation rate, well above the state average of 86.9%.
Perhaps what truly sets this district apart is its “Character Counts!” campaign. Their vision of providing a learning path that will lead to a well-rounded graduate is perpetuated by their six pillars of character:
- Trustworthiness
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Fairness
- Caring
- Citizenship
Sarasota County Public Schools
“Working As One for the Success of All,” this A-rated school district promotes academic and personal growth through a caring and committed culture.
Through academics, arts, and athletics, and so much more, Sarasota County Public Schools is striving to help graduates be college- or career-ready, and to have the life skills needed to be productive and happy members of society.
Sarasota keeps classroom sizes manageable at 14.98 students per room. This gives both the teachers and students better access to one-to-one time when needed.
Seminole County Public Schools
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is one of the bigger districts, ranking 12th largest in Florida, and 60th nationally. Sometimes bigger is better, as it can help provide more opportunities and social engagement—a big reason why SCPS schools are among the best public schools in Florida.
SCPS prepares students not just for graduation, but also to become lifelong learners and productive citizens. A key component of this is retaining teachers that have an average teacher experience of 12.65 years.
SCPS also excels with its Programs of Emphasis. At nine of its high schools, students can get a jumpstart on their career by following a structured course in fields like:
- BioScience Technology
- Creative Design & Entertainment
- Wastewater Program
- Culinary Arts
- Cybersecurity
Make Your Move
Whether you are moving to Florida from out-of-state, or are just looking for a change of scenery within the Sunshine State, Moving Squad is there to help. We can provide tips on school districts, great places to live or retire, fun things to see and do in Florida, and a lot more—as well as providing you quality moving services by top professionals.
