Local Schools Near Balmoral Lakes, Doral, 33178

The community of Balmoral Lakes is located in Doral, FL, within the ZIP code 33178. Doral is a family-friendly city in Miami-Dade County known for its excellent schools, many of which are part of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) system. Below, I’ll provide information on schools near Balmoral Lakes, including public and private options, along with their ratings based on data from sources like GreatSchools.org, Niche, and other publicly available information as of the latest updates. Ratings can vary depending on the source and criteria (e.g., test scores, parent reviews, graduation rates), so I’ll note the general consensus. Keep in mind that school zones and ratings may change, so it’s a good idea to verify current zoning and performance with MDCPS or the schools directly.

Public Schools Near Balmoral Lakes, Doral, FL 33178

Public schools in Doral are generally zoned based on residential addresses. Balmoral Lakes falls within the boundaries of some highly regarded schools in the area. Here are the primary public schools serving this community:

1. Dr. Rolando Espinosa K-8 Center (Elementary and Middle School)

   • Address: 11250 NW 86th St, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 1-2 miles
   • Grades Served: PreK-8
   • Rating:
   • GreatSchools.org: 9/10 (based on test scores, student progress, and equity)
   • Niche: A- (based on academics, teachers, and diversity)
   • Overview: This is a highly rated K-8 center known for strong academic performance, a diverse student body, and a variety of extracurricular programs. It often serves students in the Balmoral Lakes area for elementary and middle school levels.
   • Additional Info: Offers dual-language programs (English/Spanish) and has a focus on STEM education.

2. Ronald W. Reagan/Doral Senior High School

   • Address: 8600 NW 107th Ave, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Grades Served: 9-12
   • Rating:
   • GreatSchools.org: 7/10 (based on test scores, college readiness, and equity)
   • Niche: A- (based on academics, diversity, and college prep)
   • Overview: This is the primary high school serving the Doral area, including Balmoral Lakes. It offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and a variety of sports and clubs. It’s well-regarded for preparing students for college.
   • Additional Info: Known for its strong community involvement and modern facilities.

3. Eugenia B. Thomas K-8 Center (Alternative Elementary and Middle School Option)

   • Address: 5950 NW 114th Ave, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 3-4 miles
   • Grades Served: PreK-8
   • Rating:
   • GreatSchools.org: 8/10
   • Niche: A-
   • Overview: Another nearby K-8 option for families in Doral, this school is known for its academic rigor and supportive environment. Some Balmoral Lakes residents may be zoned for this school depending on specific address boundaries.
   • Additional Info: Offers a dual-language program and various enrichment activities.

   Charter Schools Near Balmoral Lakes

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with a specific educational focus. Families in Doral have access to several charter options, though admission may require a lottery or application process.

4. Doral Academy Charter School (Elementary, Middle, and High School Campuses)

   • Address (Elementary): 2450 NW 97th Ave, Doral, FL 33172 (Multiple campuses in the area)
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 3-5 miles (varies by campus)
   • Grades Served: K-12 (across different campuses)
   • Rating:
   • GreatSchools.org: 9/10 (Elementary), 9/10 (Middle), 8/10 (High)
   • Niche: A (across all levels)
   • Overview: Doral Academy is one of the most popular charter school networks in the area, known for its strong academics, arts programs, and college preparatory focus. It’s highly competitive to get into due to demand.
   • Additional Info: Offers a tuition-free education with a focus on technology and performing arts.

5. Somerset Academy Doral

   • Address: 8401 NW 107th Ave, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Grades Served: K-5 (Elementary campus; other campuses for middle/high nearby)
   • Rating:
   • GreatSchools.org: 8/10
   • Niche: A-
   • Overview: Somerset Academy offers a personalized learning environment with a focus on character development and academic excellence. It’s another popular charter option for Doral families.
   • Additional Info: Part of a larger network with middle and high school options nearby.

   Private Schools Near Balmoral Lakes

   For families seeking private education, Doral and the surrounding areas offer several options, often with religious or specialized curricula.

6. Divine Savior Academy

   • Address: 10311 NW 58th St, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 3 miles
   • Grades Served: PreK-12
   • Rating:
   • Niche: A (based on parent reviews, academics, and student life)
   • Overview: A private Christian school offering a faith-based education with a strong emphasis on academics, leadership, and community service. It’s well-regarded in the Doral area.
   • Tuition: Approximately $10,000-$15,000 per year (varies by grade; check with the school for current rates)
   • Additional Info: Offers financial aid and extracurricular programs.

7. Shelton Academy

   • Address: 11300 NW 41st St, Doral, FL 33178
   • Distance from Balmoral Lakes: Approximately 5 miles
   • Grades Served: K-8
   • Rating:
   • Niche: A- (based on reviews and academic focus)
   • Overview: A private school with a focus on individualized learning and a rigorous curriculum. It’s known for small class sizes and a nurturing environment.
   • Tuition: Approximately $12,000-$18,000 per year (confirm with the school)
   • Additional Info: Emphasizes technology integration and critical thinking skills.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Sources: GreatSchools.org ratings are based on test scores, student progress, and equity data, while Niche incorporates parent and student reviews, diversity, and extracurricular offerings. Ratings are subjective and should be supplemented with school visits or direct contact.
   • School Zoning: Public school assignments depend on your exact address within Balmoral Lakes. You can confirm zoning through the Miami-Dade County Public Schools website (www.dadeschools.net) by using their School Locator tool.
   • Charter and Private School Admissions: Charter schools often have lotteries for admission due to high demand, and private schools may require applications, interviews, or entrance exams.
   • Preschools: For younger children, there are numerous preschools and daycare options in Doral, such as The Learning Experience and Kiddie Academy, both within a few miles of Balmoral Lakes. Ratings for these vary, but parent reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google can provide insight.

   How to Research Further

   • Miami-Dade County Public Schools: Visit www.dadeschools.net or call 305-995-1000 to confirm zoning and get updated information on programs or boundary changes.
   • School Tours: Many schools in Doral offer open houses or virtual tours, especially for charter and private options.
   • Parent Reviews: Websites like GreatSchools.org and Niche.com feature parent feedback that can provide a more personal perspective on school culture and environment.

   If you have a specific address within Balmoral Lakes or are looking for schools with particular programs (e.g., special needs, gifted education, or sports), let me know, and I can refine the search further. Additionally, if you’d like information on after-school programs, transportation, or other educational resources in the area, I’m happy to assist!