School Choices Detailed and Rated Gilmore & Stockards, Medulla, 33813

The community of Gilmore & Stockards near Medulla, FL, falls within the 33813 ZIP code in Polk County. This area is served by the Polk County Public Schools district, and there are several schools in proximity that families in this community might consider. Below, I’ll provide a list of nearby schools, including their types (elementary, middle, high), approximate distances from Medulla, FL, and their ratings based on available data from sources like GreatSchools.org, which rates schools on a scale of 1-10 based on test scores, student progress, 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 GreatSchools.org or the Florida Department of Education website. I’ll also include some additional context about the schools where possible.

Since "Gilmore & Stockards" may refer to a specific neighborhood or intersection near Medulla, I’ll base the search on schools within a reasonable radius (approximately 5-10 miles) of Medulla, FL, which is a small unincorporated community south of Lakeland.

Elementary Schools

1. Medulla Elementary School

   • Location: 850 Schoolhouse Rd, Lakeland, FL 33813
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from central Medulla
   • Type: Public
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 5/10 (GreatSchools.org, based on test scores and student progress as of recent data)
   • Details: This is the closest elementary school to the Medulla area and serves many local families. It has a focus on core academics and offers programs like exceptional student education (ESE). Parental reviews often mention a supportive staff, though some note concerns about class sizes.

2. Scott Lake Elementary School

   • Location: 1140 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland, FL 33813
   • Approximate Distance: 3-4 miles from Medulla
   • Type: Public
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Located slightly east of Medulla, this school is known for a diverse student body and a focus on reading and math proficiency. It also offers after-school programs and has received mixed reviews regarding facilities and teacher engagement.

3. Valleyview Elementary School

   • Location: 2900 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland, FL 33813
   • Approximate Distance: 5-6 miles from Medulla
   • Type: Public
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: This school is a bit farther but still within the 33813 area. It tends to score higher on state assessments compared to other nearby elementary schools and has positive feedback for its academic programs and extracurriculars.

   Middle Schools

   1. Lakeland Highlands Middle School
   2. Location: 740 Lake Miriam Dr, Lakeland, FL 33813
   3. Approximate Distance: 4-5 miles from Medulla
   4. Type: Public
   5. Grade Levels: 6-8
   6. Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   7. Details: This is one of the primary middle schools serving the Medulla and south Lakeland area. It offers a range of electives and sports programs. Test scores are around the state average, with some parental feedback highlighting strong teachers but occasional concerns about bullying or discipline.

4. Southwest Middle School (alternative option)

   • Location: 2815 Eden Pkwy, Lakeland, FL 33803
   • Approximate Distance: 6-7 miles from Medulla
   • Type: Public
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Rating: 4/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Slightly farther north, this school serves parts of the broader Lakeland area. It has lower ratings due to test scores, but it offers various support programs for students needing additional academic help.

   High Schools

   1. George W. Jenkins High School
   2. Location: 6000 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland, FL 33813
   3. Approximate Distance: 4-5 miles from Medulla
   4. Type: Public
   5. Grade Levels: 9-12
   6. Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   7. Details: This is the main high school for the Medulla and south Lakeland area. It’s well-regarded for its academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and has a strong athletics program. Graduation rates are above the state average, though some reviews mention overcrowding.

5. Lakeland Senior High School (alternative option)

   • Location: 726 Hollingsworth Rd, Lakeland, FL 33801
   • Approximate Distance: 8-10 miles from Medulla
   • Type: Public
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: 5/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Located farther north in central Lakeland, this historic high school offers a variety of programs, including International Baccalaureate (IB). It serves a larger and more diverse population, with mixed reviews on academic rigor and school culture.

   Private/Charter Schools

   1. Resurrection Catholic School
   2. Location: 3720 Old Hwy 37, Lakeland, FL 33813
   3. Approximate Distance: 3-4 miles from Medulla
   4. Type: Private (Catholic)
   5. Grade Levels: PK-8
   6. Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools.org; generally well-regarded in community reviews
   7. Details: This private school offers a faith-based education with smaller class sizes. Tuition costs apply, and admission may require an application process. It’s a popular choice for families seeking an alternative to public schools.

6. McKeel Academy of Technology (Charter)

   • Location: 1810 W Parker St, Lakeland, FL 33815
   • Approximate Distance: 8-10 miles from Medulla
   • Type: Charter
   • Grade Levels: 7-12
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: This highly rated charter school focuses on technology and academics. It has a competitive application process and is known for strong test scores and college preparation. It’s farther from Medulla but worth considering for families willing to commute.

   Additional Notes

   • School Zoning: School assignments in Polk County are based on residential zoning. To confirm which schools your specific address in the Gilmore & Stockards community is zoned for, you can use the Polk County Public Schools’ School Zone Locator tool on their website (polkschoolsfl.com).
   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools.org ratings are based on test scores, equity, and student progress, but they don’t capture everything (e.g., school culture or specific programs). Visiting schools or speaking with local parents can provide more insight.
   • Transportation: Polk County Public Schools provides bus services for students within zoned areas, but availability depends on distance from the school (typically must live 2+ miles away for bus eligibility). Check the district website for details.
   • Other Options: There are additional charter and private schools in the broader Lakeland area, as well as homeschooling networks, if families are seeking alternatives.

   If you have a specific address in the Gilmore & Stockards area, I can help narrow down the exact zoned schools. Additionally, if you’re interested in more details about a particular school (e.g., programs, reviews, or enrollment), let me know! You can also contact the Polk County School District directly at (863) 534-0500 for the most up-to-date information.