School Choices Detailed and Rated Cheval, Lutz, 33558

The community of Cheval in Lutz, FL (ZIP code 33558) is located in Hillsborough County and is served by the Hillsborough County Public Schools district, one of the largest school districts in Florida. Cheval is a prestigious, gated community known for its family-friendly environment, and there are several highly-rated schools in the vicinity. Below is a detailed list of schools near Cheval, Lutz, FL, including their ratings, based on data from sources like GreatSchools.org, Niche.com, and the Florida Department of Education. Ratings are typically based on test scores, student progress, college readiness, and other factors. Note that ratings can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend checking the most current data on these platforms or the school district's website.

Public Schools Near Cheval, Lutz, FL (33558)

Hillsborough County Public Schools assigns schools based on zoning, and families in Cheval are typically zoned for the following schools. I’ve also included nearby options within a reasonable driving distance (approximately 5-10 miles). Distances are approximate and based on mapping tools.

Elementary Schools

1. McKitrick Elementary School

   • Address: 5503 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33558
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 1-2 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org); A (Florida Department of Education)
   • Overview: McKitrick Elementary is highly regarded for its strong academic performance, dedicated teachers, and active parent involvement. It often ranks among the top elementary schools in the area due to high test scores and a focus on student growth.
   • Enrollment: ~900 students
   • Notable Features: Offers gifted programs, extracurricular activities, and a strong STEM focus.

2. Hammond Elementary School (Alternative Option)

   • Address: 8008 N Mobley Rd, Odessa, FL 33556
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 4-5 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A (Florida Department of Education)
   • Overview: Located slightly outside Cheval, Hammond Elementary serves some nearby areas and is known for its welcoming environment and solid academic programs.
   • Enrollment: ~700 students
   • Notable Features: Emphasis on community involvement and student support services.

   Middle Schools

   1. Martinez Middle School
   2. Address: 5601 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33558
   3. Distance from Cheval: Approximately 1-2 miles
   4. Grade Levels: 6-8
   5. Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A (Florida Department of Education)
   6. Overview: Martinez Middle School is the primary zoned middle school for Cheval residents. It is well-regarded for its academic rigor, extracurricular offerings, and preparation for high school.
   7. Enrollment: ~1,100 students
   8. Notable Features: Offers advanced coursework, sports programs, and clubs like robotics and band.

   High Schools

   1. Steinbrenner High School
   2. Address: 5575 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33558
   3. Distance from Cheval: Approximately 1-2 miles
   4. Grade Levels: 9-12
   5. Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A (Florida Department of Education)
   6. Overview: Steinbrenner High School is the zoned high school for most Cheval residents. It is one of the top-rated high schools in Hillsborough County, known for strong academics, competitive sports teams, and a variety of AP (Advanced Placement) and dual-enrollment courses.
   7. Enrollment: ~2,400 students
   8. Notable Features: High college readiness scores, diverse extracurriculars, and a strong athletics program (known for football and other sports).

   Private Schools Near Cheval, Lutz, FL (33558)

   For families seeking private education, there are several options within a short drive of Cheval. Private school ratings are often based on parent reviews, academic reputation, and niche.com data since they may not be subject to state standardized testing.

3. Carrollwood Day School

   • Address: 1515 W Bearss Ave, Tampa, FL 33613
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 6-7 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • Rating: A+ (Niche.com)
   • Overview: A prestigious private school offering an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Carrollwood Day School is known for its rigorous academics, small class sizes, and focus on global education.
   • Tuition: Approximately $15,000–$25,000 per year (varies by grade level)
   • Notable Features: Strong arts and athletics programs, college preparatory focus.

4. Tampa Preparatory School

   • Address: 727 W Cass St, Tampa, FL 33606
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 15 miles
   • Grade Levels: 6-12
   • Rating: A+ (Niche.com)
   • Overview: While a bit farther from Cheval, Tampa Prep is one of the top private schools in the Tampa Bay area, offering a challenging curriculum and a focus on leadership and innovation.
   • Tuition: Approximately $25,000–$30,000 per year
   • Notable Features: State-of-the-art facilities, strong STEM programs, and high college acceptance rates.

5. Hillsdale Christian Academy

   • Address: 6201 Ehrlich Rd, Tampa, FL 33625
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 5-6 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • Rating: B+ (Niche.com)
   • Overview: A smaller, faith-based school offering a Christian education with a focus on academic and spiritual development.
   • Tuition: Approximately $6,000–$10,000 per year
   • Notable Features: Smaller class sizes, family-oriented environment.

   Charter Schools Near Cheval, Lutz, FL (33558)

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with a specific educational focus. Enrollment may require an application or lottery system.

6. Learning Gate Community School

   • Address: 16215 Hanna Rd, Lutz, FL 33549
   • Distance from Cheval: Approximately 5-6 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org); B (Florida Department of Education)
   • Overview: A charter school with an environmental education focus, Learning Gate emphasizes hands-on learning and sustainability.
   • Enrollment: ~800 students
   • Notable Features: Nature-based curriculum, organic gardens on campus.

   Additional Notes on School Selection

   • Zoning: School assignments in Hillsborough County are based on residential address. To confirm the zoned schools for a specific address in Cheval, use the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ “School Locator” tool on their website (hcps.net).
   • School Choice: Hillsborough County offers a school choice program, allowing students to apply to magnet schools, charter schools, or other public schools outside their zoned area if space is available. Popular magnet programs in the area include those for STEM, arts, or IB.
   • Ratings Variability: School ratings are subjective and depend on the metrics used. GreatSchools.org focuses on test scores and equity, while Niche.com includes parent and student reviews. The Florida Department of Education assigns letter grades (A-F) based on state assessments.
   • Transportation: Public school students in Cheval may qualify for bus transportation if they live beyond a certain distance from their zoned school. Private and charter schools often do not provide transportation, so families should plan accordingly.

   Conclusion

   The Cheval community in Lutz, FL (33558) is fortunate to be zoned for some of the highest-rated public schools in Hillsborough County, including McKitrick Elementary, Martinez Middle, and Steinbrenner High. These schools consistently receive high marks for academics and extracurricular opportunities. Additionally, families have access to reputable private and charter schools nearby for alternative educational options. For the most up-to-date information or to explore specific programs (e.g., special needs, gifted education), I recommend visiting the Hillsborough County Public Schools website or contacting the schools directly.

   If you have a specific address in Cheval or are looking for more details about a particular school (e.g., extracurriculars, class sizes, or application processes), let me know, and I can help further!