Local Schools Near Monterey, Lakewood Ranches, 34240

The community of Monterey in Lakewood Ranch, located in the 34240 ZIP code of Sarasota County, Florida, is part of a well-planned, family-friendly area with access to several highly-rated schools. Lakewood Ranch is known for its excellent educational options, many of which are within or near the master-planned community. Below, I’ll provide information on the schools closest to Monterey in Lakewood Ranch, including public and private options, along with their ratings based on data from sources like GreatSchools.org, Niche, 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 verifying the most current data.

Public Schools Near Monterey, Lakewood Ranch (34240)

Public schools in this area are primarily part of the Sarasota County School District, which is known for its strong academic performance and high rankings in Florida. The schools listed below are zoned for or near the Monterey community.

1. Gilbert W. McNeal Elementary School

   • Location: 6325 Lorraine Rd, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 (approximately 2-3 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: PreK-5
   • Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education (based on recent data)
   • Details: This is the primary elementary school serving much of Lakewood Ranch, including areas near Monterey. It is highly regarded for its academic programs, extracurricular activities, and family involvement. The school emphasizes STEM education and has a strong community reputation.

2. R. Dan Nolan Middle School

   • Location: 6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 (approximately 3-4 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   • Details: Nolan Middle School serves students in the Lakewood Ranch area and is known for its rigorous academics, advanced coursework options, and extracurriculars like sports and arts. It has a focus on preparing students for high school.

3. Lakewood Ranch High School

   • Location: 5500 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34211 (approximately 5-6 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org); A-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   • Details: This is the primary high school for the Lakewood Ranch community. It offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career academies, and extracurricular activities, including a strong athletics program. The school consistently ranks among the top in the region for college readiness.

   Private Schools Near Monterey, Lakewood Ranch (34240)

   For families seeking private or alternative education options, there are several reputable schools in or near Lakewood Ranch.

4. The Out-of-Door Academy (Lakewood Ranch Campus)

   • Location: 5950 Deer Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240 (approximately 5-6 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: PreK-12
   • Rating: Highly rated on Niche (A+ for academics and overall experience)
   • Details: This prestigious private school offers a college-preparatory curriculum with a focus on academics, arts, and athletics. It has small class sizes and a strong emphasis on individualized learning. Tuition is significant, but financial aid is available.

5. Pinnacle Academy

   • Location: 6215 Lorraine Rd, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 (approximately 2-3 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: PreK-12 (specializes in students with learning differences)
   • Rating: Not traditionally rated like public schools, but well-regarded for specialized education
   • Details: Pinnacle Academy caters to students with learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorders. It provides a supportive environment with tailored instruction.

   Charter Schools Near Monterey, Lakewood Ranch (34240)

   Charter schools offer alternative public education options and are often popular in the Sarasota area.

6. Imagine School at Lakewood Ranch

   • Location: 10535 Portal Crossing, Bradenton, FL 34211 (approximately 6-7 miles from Monterey)
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org); B-rated by the Florida Department of Education
   • Details: This charter school focuses on project-based learning and character development. It provides an alternative to traditional public schools with a smaller, community-focused environment.

   Additional Notes on School Zoning and Ratings

   • Zoning: School assignments in Sarasota County are based on residential address. The Monterey community in Lakewood Ranch typically falls within the zoning for McNeal Elementary, Nolan Middle, and Lakewood Ranch High. However, zoning can change, and it’s important to confirm with the Sarasota County School District (https://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/) using your specific address.
   • Ratings Sources: Ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org and the Florida Department of Education’s school accountability reports (as of the most recent data available). Niche.com also provides parent and student reviews for additional context.
   • Transportation: Many schools in Lakewood Ranch offer bus services for zoned students. The community’s design also makes schools relatively accessible by car or bike for nearby residents.
   • Future Growth: Lakewood Ranch is a growing area, and new schools may be planned or built to accommodate population increases. Check with the school district for updates on future facilities.

   How to Research Further

   • Sarasota County Schools Website: Visit https://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/ to use the school locator tool and find specific zoning information for your address in Monterey.
   • GreatSchools.org: Search for detailed reviews, test scores, and parent feedback on local schools.
   • Florida Department of Education: Access school report cards at https://www.fldoe.org/ for official state ratings and performance data.
   • School Tours: Many schools in the area offer open houses or virtual tours, especially for prospective families.

   If you have a specific address within Monterey or additional criteria (e.g., special needs programs, religious education), I can refine the search further. Let me know if you'd like more details on a particular school or program!