Local Schools Near Independence, Winter Garden, 34787

The community of Independence in Winter Garden, FL (ZIP code 34787) is a family-friendly area with access to several schools in the Orange County Public Schools district. Below, I’ll provide a list of nearby schools, including their ratings and some additional details. School ratings are often based on sources like GreatSchools.org, which evaluates 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, Niche.com, or the Florida Department of Education website. I’ll also include approximate distances from the Independence community (based on general location data) and some context about each school.

Elementary Schools

1. Independence Elementary School

   • Location: 6255 New Independence Pkwy, Winter Garden, FL 34787
   • Distance: Approximately 0.5-1 mile (within or adjacent to the Independence community)
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org, as of recent data)
   • Details: This is the primary elementary school serving the Independence community. It focuses on a strong academic foundation with programs in STEM and community involvement. It serves grades K-5 and has a student-teacher ratio of about 16:1. Parents often praise its proximity and family-oriented environment, though some mention concerns about class sizes.

2. Keene's Crossing Elementary School

   • Location: 5240 Keenes Pheasant Dr, Windermere, FL 34786
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles from Independence
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Another nearby option for elementary students, serving grades K-5. This school is known for high test scores and a diverse student body. It also offers extracurricular activities and has a reputation for strong parent involvement.

   Middle Schools

   1. Bridgewater Middle School
   2. Location: 5600 Tiny Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787
   3. Distance: Approximately 1-2 miles from Independence
   4. Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   5. Details: This is the zoned middle school for many students in the Independence area, serving grades 6-8. It offers advanced placement courses and various clubs and sports. Reviews highlight its modern facilities (built in 2009) and dedicated staff, though some parents note challenges with overcrowding.

   High Schools

   1. Windermere High School
   2. Location: 5523 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Windermere, FL 34786
   3. Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles from Independence
   4. Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   5. Details: This is the primary high school for students in the Independence community, serving grades 9-12. Opened in 2017, it’s a relatively new school with modern amenities, strong academic programs, and a variety of sports and extracurriculars. It has received positive feedback for its college preparatory focus and campus environment.

   Private and Charter Schools

   1. Foundation Academy - South Campus (Private)
   2. Location: 15304 Tilden Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787
   3. Distance: Approximately 5-6 miles from Independence
   4. Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools; generally well-regarded in reviews on Niche.com (A- rating)
   5. Details: A Christian private school serving grades K-12. It emphasizes faith-based education alongside academics and offers smaller class sizes. Tuition is a consideration, and enrollment may require an application process.

3. Hope Charter School (Charter)

   • Location: 1550 E Crown Point Rd, Ocoee, FL 34761
   • Distance: Approximately 6-7 miles from Independence
   • Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: A public charter school serving grades K-8, offering an alternative to traditional public schools with a focus on individualized learning. It’s smaller in size compared to nearby public schools, which some families prefer.

   Additional Notes

   • School Zoning: The schools listed as “zoned” (Independence Elementary, Bridgewater Middle, Windermere High) are based on typical zoning for the Independence community in Winter Garden, FL 34787. However, zoning can change, and it’s important to verify your specific address with the Orange County Public Schools zoning tool (available on their website: ocps.net).
   • Ratings Context: Ratings from GreatSchools.org are based on test scores, equity, and student progress, but they don’t capture everything (e.g., school culture or specific programs). Parent reviews on platforms like Niche.com can provide additional insights.
   • Transportation: Many schools in this area offer bus services for zoned students, and Independence’s central location makes driving to nearby schools relatively convenient.
   • Future Growth: Winter Garden is a rapidly growing area, and new schools may be planned or built to accommodate population increases. Check with Orange County Public Schools for updates on new facilities or rezoning.

   How to Research Further

   • Visit GreatSchools.org or Niche.com for updated ratings, reviews, and detailed statistics.
   • Check the Orange County Public Schools website (ocps.net) for zoning maps, school calendars, and enrollment information.
   • Attend open houses or contact schools directly for tours and specific program details.
   • Join local community groups (e.g., on Facebook, like “Winter Garden Moms” or “Independence Community Group”) for parent feedback and firsthand experiences.

   If you have a specific address within Independence or are looking for schools with particular programs (e.g., special needs, gifted, or sports-focused), let me know, and I can refine the search further!