Local Schools Near Amberlea, Sarasota, 34233

Amberlea is a community located in Sarasota, Florida, with the ZIP code 34233. This area is part of Sarasota County, which is served by the Sarasota County School District, known for its quality education and high-performing schools. Below, I’ll provide information on the schools near the Amberlea community, including public and private options, along with their ratings based on data from sources like GreatSchools.org, Niche, and the Florida Department of Education. Ratings are typically based on test scores, student progress, college readiness, and other factors. Keep in mind that ratings can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend checking the most current data or visiting the schools for a personal assessment.

Location Context

Amberlea is situated in central Sarasota, near the intersection of Bee Ridge Road and McIntosh Road, close to major landmarks like Doctors Hospital of Sarasota and the I-75 corridor. The schools listed below are within a reasonable driving distance (approximately 5-10 miles) from this area, as this is a common radius for school zoning and accessibility in suburban communities like Sarasota.

Public Schools Near Amberlea (Sarasota County School District)

Public schools are assigned based on zoning, but families can sometimes apply for school choice programs if they prefer a different school. You can confirm zoning for a specific address using the Sarasota County School District’s School Locator tool (available on their website: www.sarasotacountyschools.net).

Elementary Schools

1. Ashton Elementary School

   • Address: 5110 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 1-2 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education (based on recent data)
   • Overview: Ashton Elementary is highly regarded for its strong academic performance, dedicated teachers, and active parent involvement. It often scores above state averages in reading and math.
   • Notable Features: Offers gifted programs, after-school care, and extracurricular activities.

2. Lakeview Elementary School

   • Address: 7299 Proctor Rd, Sarasota, FL 34241
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 4-5 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   • Overview: Located slightly east of Amberlea, Lakeview Elementary is known for its welcoming environment and focus on student achievement.
   • Notable Features: Strong STEM programs and community engagement.

   Middle Schools

   1. Sarasota Middle School
   2. Address: 4826 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
   3. Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 1-2 miles
   4. Grade Levels: 6-8
   5. Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   6. Overview: Sarasota Middle is one of the top-rated middle schools in the area, with excellent test scores, a variety of electives, and a strong focus on preparing students for high school.
   7. Notable Features: Offers advanced courses, sports programs, and arts opportunities.

   High Schools

   1. Riverview High School
   2. Address: 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
   3. Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 5-6 miles
   4. Grade Levels: 9-12
   5. Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   6. Overview: Riverview High is a well-respected school with a strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program, high graduation rates, and a wide range of extracurriculars.
   7. Notable Features: IB program, performing arts center, and competitive athletics.

3. Sarasota High School

   • Address: 1000 S School Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 6-7 miles
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org); B-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   • Overview: Sarasota High offers a traditional high school experience with a focus on academics and extracurriculars, though it may not rank as highly as Riverview in test scores.
   • Notable Features: Strong arts programs and career-focused pathways.

   Private Schools Near Amberlea

   For families seeking alternatives to public education, there are several private schools in the Sarasota area with various educational philosophies and religious affiliations.

4. The Out-of-Door Academy (Lower School and Upper School)

   • Address (Lower School): 444 Reid St, Sarasota, FL 34242 (about 8 miles from Amberlea)
   • Address (Upper School): 5950 Deer Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240 (about 6 miles from Amberlea)
   • Grade Levels: PreK-12
   • Rating: Highly rated on Niche (A+); known for academic excellence
   • Overview: A prestigious independent school offering a college-preparatory curriculum with a focus on academics, arts, and athletics.
   • Tuition: Approximately $15,000–$25,000 per year (varies by grade level)
   • Notable Features: Small class sizes, extensive extracurriculars, and strong college placement.

5. Incarnation Catholic School

   • Address: 2911 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34239
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 3-4 miles
   • Grade Levels: PreK-8
   • Rating: Well-regarded locally; specific ratings vary (check Niche or private reviews)
   • Overview: A faith-based school providing a Catholic education with an emphasis on moral development and academics.
   • Tuition: Around $8,000–$10,000 per year (contact school for exact figures)
   • Notable Features: Religious instruction, community service focus.

6. Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School

   • Address: 4171 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 4-5 miles
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: Strong reputation; A- on Niche
   • Overview: A Catholic high school offering a rigorous academic program alongside spiritual growth.
   • Tuition: Approximately $12,000–$15,000 per year
   • Notable Features: College prep focus, sports, and faith-based education.

   Charter Schools Near Amberlea

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with unique educational approaches. Enrollment is typically open via lottery or application.

7. Sarasota Suncoast Academy

   • Address: 8084 Hawkins Rd, Sarasota, FL 34241
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 5 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); generally well-reviewed
   • Overview: A charter school focusing on academic excellence and character development.
   • Notable Features: Smaller class sizes, project-based learning.

8. Imagine School at Palmer Ranch

   • Address: 6220 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34238
   • Distance from Amberlea: Approximately 5-6 miles
   • Grade Levels: PreK-8
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Overview: Part of the Imagine Schools network, this charter school emphasizes a personalized learning environment.
   • Notable Features: Focus on character education and community involvement.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Sources: Ratings from GreatSchools.org and Niche are based on test scores, parent reviews, and other metrics. The Florida Department of Education assigns letter grades (A-F) based on student performance and growth. Always cross-check with multiple sources as perceptions of schools can differ.
   • School Zoning: Public school assignments depend on your exact address within Amberlea. Use the Sarasota County School District’s online locator tool or contact the district at (941) 927-9000 for confirmation.
   • School Choice: Sarasota County offers a school choice program allowing students to apply to schools outside their zoned area if space is available. Applications are typically due in early spring for the following school year.
   • Visiting Schools: Ratings don’t tell the whole story. I recommend scheduling tours or attending open houses to get a feel for the school culture, facilities, and staff.
   • Special Programs: Many schools in the area offer gifted programs, special needs support, and career/technical education. Contact individual schools for details on specific offerings.

   Conclusion

   The Amberlea community in Sarasota, FL (ZIP 34233), is surrounded by highly rated public schools like Ashton Elementary and Sarasota Middle, as well as quality private and charter options. Most nearby public schools are A-rated by the state, reflecting strong academic performance. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, I suggest visiting the Sarasota County School District website (www.sarasotacountyschools.net) or contacting schools directly.