Local Schools Near Plaza de Flores, Sarasota, 34238

The community of Plaza de Flores is located in Sarasota, Florida, with the ZIP code 34238, which falls within the Sarasota County School District. This area is near Palmer Ranch, a well-established residential area known for its proximity to good schools, amenities, and family-friendly environments. Below, I’ll provide information on the schools (elementary, middle, and high schools) near Plaza de Flores, along with their ratings based on data from GreatSchools.org, a widely used resource for school performance metrics. Ratings are on a scale of 1-10 and are 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 or visiting the schools for a personal assessment. I’ll also include approximate distances from Plaza de Flores (based on a central point in the 34238 ZIP code near Palmer Ranch Parkway).

Elementary Schools

1. Ashton Elementary School

   • Address: 5110 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
   • Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles from Plaza de Flores
   • Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Ashton Elementary is highly regarded for its strong academic performance, dedicated teachers, and active parent involvement. It serves grades K-5 and often scores above state averages in standardized testing for reading and math.
   • Additional Info: Offers various extracurricular activities and has a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) programs.

2. Gulf Gate Elementary School

   • Address: 6500 S Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231
   • Distance: Approximately 4-5 miles from Plaza de Flores
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Gulf Gate Elementary serves grades K-5 and is known for a supportive learning environment with a diverse student body. It has solid test scores and offers programs like gifted education.
   • Additional Info: Close to the Gulf Gate community, with a focus on community engagement and after-school programs.

   Middle Schools

   1. Sarasota Middle School
   2. Address: 4826 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
   3. Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles from Plaza de Flores
   4. Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   5. Details: Sarasota Middle School serves grades 6-8 and is one of the top-rated middle schools in the area. It has strong academic programs, including advanced placement options and a variety of extracurriculars like sports and arts.
   6. Additional Info: Known for its rigorous curriculum and high student achievement in state assessments.

   High Schools

   1. Riverview High School
   2. Address: 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
   3. Distance: Approximately 5-6 miles from Plaza de Flores
   4. Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   5. Details: Riverview High School serves grades 9-12 and is well-known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, strong athletics, and performing arts. It consistently performs above state averages in graduation rates and college readiness.
   6. Additional Info: Offers a wide range of AP courses and has a reputation for preparing students for higher education.

   Private and Charter School Options

   1. The Out-of-Door Academy (Private)
   2. Address: 444 Reid St, Sarasota, FL 34242 (Lower School) and 5950 Deer Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240 (Upper School)
   3. Distance: Lower School is about 7-8 miles; Upper School is farther at 10-12 miles
   4. Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools.org, but highly regarded in the community
   5. Details: A prestigious private school serving grades PK-12, known for small class sizes, personalized education, and strong college placement. Tuition is significant, reflecting its elite status.
   6. Additional Info: Focuses on academics, arts, and athletics with a campus near Siesta Key for younger grades.

3. Imagine School at Palmer Ranch (Charter)

   • Address: 6220 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34238
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles from Plaza de Flores
   • Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: A public charter school serving grades PK-8, located very close to the Plaza de Flores community. It emphasizes project-based learning and character development.
   • Additional Info: Offers a tuition-free alternative to traditional public schools with a smaller, community-focused environment.

   Additional Notes

   • School Zoning: The specific schools a child attends depend on the exact address within Plaza de Flores. Sarasota County Schools has an online school locator tool (available on their website, www.sarasotacountyschools.net) where you can input your address to confirm zoning.
   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools.org ratings are a starting point but may not reflect all aspects of a school, such as culture, teacher quality, or specific programs. Visiting schools or speaking with local parents can provide deeper insight.
   • Transportation: Sarasota County Schools provides bus services for students within zoned areas, though distances and eligibility vary. Private and charter schools may have different transportation options.
   • Other Resources: Websites like Niche.com or the Florida Department of Education (www.fldoe.org) offer additional data on school performance and reviews.

   If you have a specific address within Plaza de Flores or are looking for more detailed information about a particular school (e.g., special programs, enrollment processes), let me know, and I can help refine the search or provide further assistance!