Local Schools Near Richards First, Opa-locka, 33054

The community of Richards First in Opa-locka, FL (ZIP code 33054) is located in Miami-Dade County. Below, I’ll provide information on schools near this area, including public and private options, along with their ratings based on 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 and school performance can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend verifying the most current information through the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) website or visiting the schools directly. Distances are approximate and based on the general vicinity of Opa-locka, FL 33054.

Public Schools Near Richards First, Opa-locka, FL 33054

These schools are managed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). I’ve included elementary, middle, and high schools within or near the 33054 ZIP code.

1. Nathan B. Young Elementary School

   • Address: 14120 NW 24th Ave, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Public Elementary (Grades PK-5)
   • Distance: Approximately 0.5-1 mile from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: 3/10 (GreatSchools.org, based on test scores and student progress)
   • Details: This school serves a diverse student population with a focus on foundational education. It has programs for pre-kindergarten through 5th grade but faces challenges with academic performance compared to district averages.

2. Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary School

   • Address: 600 Ahmad St, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Public Elementary (Grades PK-5)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-1.5 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: 4/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: Named after a local educator, this school offers early education programs and has a slightly better rating than some nearby schools, though it still struggles with consistent academic outcomes.

3. North Dade Middle School

   • Address: 1840 NW 157th St, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Public Middle School (Grades 6-8)
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: 3/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: This middle school serves students transitioning from elementary to high school. It offers various extracurricular activities but has below-average test scores compared to state standards.

4. Miami Carol City Senior High School

   • Address: 3301 Miami Gardens Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
   • Type: Public High School (Grades 9-12)
   • Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: 3/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: One of the primary high schools serving the Opa-locka area, it offers a range of academic and vocational programs. However, it faces challenges with graduation rates and test performance.

   Charter Schools Near Richards First, Opa-locka, FL 33054

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with specialized curricula.

5. Beacon College Preparatory Charter School

   • Address: 13400 NW 28th Ave, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Charter (Grades K-8)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-2 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: 5/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Details: This charter school focuses on college preparatory education and has a slightly higher rating than nearby traditional public schools. It emphasizes smaller class sizes and individualized learning.

   Private Schools Near Richards First, Opa-locka, FL 33054

   Private schools often require tuition and may have religious or specialized educational focuses.

6. Betesda Christian School

   • Address: 3300 NW 135th St, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Private (Grades K-12)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-2 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: Not widely rated on GreatSchools.org; reviews vary based on parent feedback
   • Details: A faith-based school offering education from kindergarten through high school. It focuses on Christian values alongside academics. Tuition and enrollment details should be confirmed directly with the school.

7. Vankara Christian School

   • Address: 13331 NW 28th Ave, Opa-locka, FL 33054
   • Type: Private (Grades PK-9)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-1.5 miles from central Opa-locka
   • Rating: Limited data available; parent reviews suggest a focus on small class sizes
   • Details: Another faith-based option, this school serves younger students through early high school grades with a curriculum rooted in Christian teachings.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Context: The ratings provided (primarily from GreatSchools.org) are based on factors like test scores, student growth, and equity. Schools in the Opa-locka area often face socioeconomic challenges that can impact performance metrics. A lower rating does not necessarily reflect the quality of teachers or the potential for student success.
   • School Boundaries: Public school assignments are based on zoning. To confirm which school your child is zoned for, use the M-DCPS School Locator tool (available on the district website: www.dadeschools.net).
   • Other Options: Families in Opa-locka may also consider magnet programs, virtual schools, or schools in neighboring ZIP codes like Miami Gardens (33056) or Hialeah (33013) for additional educational opportunities. Magnet schools often require applications and may have specific focuses (e.g., STEM, arts).
   • Safety and Environment: Beyond ratings, consider visiting schools to assess the environment, extracurricular offerings, and safety measures. Websites like Niche.com or local parent forums can provide additional insights.

   How to Get More Information

   • Miami-Dade County Public Schools: Visit www.dadeschools.net or call 305-995-1000 for zoning information, enrollment processes, and updates on school performance.
   • Florida Department of Education: Check school report cards at www.fldoe.org for state-level data on test scores and graduation rates.
   • GreatSchools.org or Niche.com: These sites offer parent reviews and additional metrics on schools in the 33054 area.
   • Direct Contact: Reach out to individual schools for open houses, tours, or specific program details.

   If you have a specific address within Richards First or Opa-locka, I can help narrow down the zoned schools further. Additionally, if you’re looking for schools with particular programs (e.g., special needs, gifted education, or sports), let me know, and I can provide more targeted information.