Local Schools Near Cresswind, Lakewood Ranches, 34211

The there! I'm happy to help you find information about schools near the Cresswind community in Lakewood Ranch, FL, with the ZIP code 34211. Lakewood Ranch is a master-planned community in Manatee County, known for its family-friendly environment and access to quality schools. Below, I'll provide details on nearby schools, their ratings, and other relevant information. Ratings are typically based on sources like GreatSchools.org, which evaluates schools on test scores, student progress, 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 on sites like GreatSchools.org or the Florida Department of Education.

Overview of the Area

Cresswind Lakewood Ranch is a 55+ active adult community located within the larger Lakewood Ranch area in Bradenton, FL. The ZIP code 34211 covers parts of eastern Manatee County, and the schools serving this area are part of the Manatee County School District. Lakewood Ranch is known for having some of the top-rated schools in the region, with several public and private options available. I’ll focus on schools within a reasonable distance (approximately 5-10 miles) from the Cresswind community, as well as their ratings and key details.

Public Schools Near Cresswind Lakewood Ranch (34211)

The Manatee County School District assigns schools based on zoning, and the specific schools for an address in Cresswind Lakewood Ranch can be confirmed using the district’s school locator tool (available on their website). However, based on the general location, here are the most likely public schools serving this area:

1. Gullett Elementary School

   • Address: 12125 44th Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34211
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles from Cresswind Lakewood Ranch
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org, as of recent data)
   • Details: Gullett Elementary is highly regarded for its strong academic performance, dedicated teachers, and family involvement. It serves many families in the Lakewood Ranch area and often receives praise for its welcoming environment and extracurricular offerings.
   • Enrollment: Around 700-800 students (varies by year)
   • Contact: (941) 727-2600

2. Dr. Mona Jain Middle School

   • Address: 12205 44th Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34211
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles from Cresswind Lakewood Ranch
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org, as of recent data)
   • Details: This middle school opened in 2018 to accommodate the growing population in Lakewood Ranch. It offers a range of academic programs, including advanced courses, and focuses on preparing students for high school. It’s known for modern facilities and a strong emphasis on technology.
   • Enrollment: Around 1,000 students
   • Contact: (941) 727-6500

3. Lakewood Ranch High School

   • Address: 5500 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34211
   • Distance: Approximately 5-6 miles from Cresswind Lakewood Ranch
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org, as of recent data)
   • Details: Lakewood Ranch High School is one of the top high schools in Manatee County, offering a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career academies, and extracurricular activities like sports and arts. It has a strong reputation for college readiness.
   • Enrollment: Around 2,500 students
   • Contact: (941) 727-6100

   Other Nearby Public School Options

   If families in the Cresswind area are looking for alternative public schools (e.g., due to zoning or school choice programs), here are a couple of other notable options slightly farther away but still within a reasonable drive:

   • Freedom Elementary School
   • Address: 9515 FL-64, Bradenton, FL 34212
   • Distance: About 6-7 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org)

   • Details: Another strong elementary option with a focus on student achievement and community engagement.

   • Braden River Middle School

   • Address: 6215 River Club Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202
   • Distance: About 7-8 miles
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: A well-established middle school with solid academic programs and extracurriculars.

   Private Schools Near Cresswind Lakewood Ranch

   For families seeking private education, there are several options in and around Lakewood Ranch. Private schools often have different admission processes and tuition costs, so contacting them directly is recommended.

4. The Classical Academy of Sarasota

   • Address: 8751 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240 (near Lakewood Ranch)
   • Distance: Approximately 8-10 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-12
   • Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools.org, but highly reviewed by parents for its classical education model
   • Details: This school focuses on a classical curriculum with an emphasis on critical thinking, literature, and history. It’s a smaller, community-driven school with a strong academic focus.
   • Contact: (941) 315-0919

5. Pinnacle Academy

   • Address: 6215 Lorraine Rd, Bradenton, FL 34202
   • Distance: Approximately 5-6 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-12 (special needs focus)
   • Rating: Not widely rated, but known for personalized education
   • Details: Pinnacle Academy caters to students with learning differences, offering individualized programs. It’s a smaller school with a supportive environment.
   • Contact: (941) 755-1400

6. Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School

   • Address: 315 41st St W, Bradenton, FL 34209
   • Distance: Approximately 12-15 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • Rating: Highly regarded, often considered one of the top private schools in the area
   • Details: This college-preparatory school offers a rigorous academic program with a focus on character development and faith-based values. It has a strong reputation for preparing students for top universities.
   • Contact: (941) 746-2121

   Charter Schools Near Cresswind Lakewood Ranch

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with unique educational approaches. Here are a couple of options nearby:

7. Imagine School at Lakewood Ranch

   • Address: 10535 Portal Crossing, Bradenton, FL 34211
   • Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: A tuition-free charter school emphasizing character education alongside academics. It’s a popular choice for families seeking an alternative to traditional public schools.
   • Contact: (941) 750-0900

   Additional Notes

   • School Zoning: Since Cresswind Lakewood Ranch is a 55+ community, many residents may not have school-aged children. However, for those with grandchildren or family nearby, confirming the exact zoned schools for a specific address is important. Use the Manatee County School District’s locator tool (available at manateeschools.net) by entering a specific address.
   • Ratings Disclaimer: Ratings from GreatSchools.org are based on test scores, equity, and other metrics, but they don’t capture everything (like school culture or specific programs). Visiting schools or speaking with local parents can provide deeper insight.
   • Transportation: Most public schools in the area offer bus services for zoned students. Private and charter schools may have different transportation options or require parent drop-off.
   • Extracurriculars and Special Programs: Many schools in Lakewood Ranch offer sports, arts, STEM programs, and more. Lakewood Ranch High School, for instance, has a robust athletics program and career-focused academies.

   How to Research Further

   • Manatee County School District Website: manateeschools.net (for zoning, calendars, and registration info)
   • GreatSchools.org: For updated ratings, reviews, and test score data
   • Florida Department of Education: fldoe.org (for state-level reports and school performance data)
   • School Tours: Contact schools directly to arrange visits or attend open houses, especially for private or charter options.

   If you have a specific address within Cresswind Lakewood Ranch or want details on a particular school, let me know, and I can refine the search. Also, if you’re looking for preschools, daycare options, or higher education (like colleges nearby), just ask! 😊