Local Schools Near Starlight, Miami Gardens, 33055

I'm happy to assist you with information about schools near the Starlight community in Miami Gardens, FL, within the 33055 ZIP code. Miami Gardens is a suburban city in Miami-Dade County, and the 33055 area includes parts of this community. Below, I’ll provide details on nearby schools, including public and private options, along with 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 verifying the most current information through the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) website or visiting the schools directly.

Location Context

The 33055 ZIP code covers parts of Miami Gardens, including neighborhoods near NW 183rd Street and NW 47th Avenue, close to the Starlight community. Schools listed below are within or near this area, generally within a 1-5 mile radius, depending on zoning and accessibility.

Public Schools Near Starlight, Miami Gardens, FL (33055)

Public schools in this area are managed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). Here are some of the schools zoned for or near the 33055 area:

1. Carol City Elementary School

   • Address: 4375 NW 173rd Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33055
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 4/10 (GreatSchools.org, based on test scores and student progress)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-2 miles from central 33055 areas
   • Details: This school serves a diverse student population and focuses on foundational education. It has programs for early childhood education and after-school care. Test scores are below the state average in some areas, but the school has initiatives for student improvement.

2. Lake Stevens Elementary School

   • Address: 5105 NW 183rd St, Miami Gardens, FL 33055
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • Rating: 5/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-2 miles from Starlight
   • Details: Known for a supportive environment, this school offers various academic programs and extracurricular activities. Math and reading proficiency rates are near or slightly below state averages.

3. Carol City Middle School

   • Address: 3737 NW 188th St, Miami Gardens, FL 33055
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • Rating: 3/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Distance: Approximately 1-3 miles
   • Details: This middle school serves students transitioning to higher grades with a focus on core academics. Test scores are below state averages, and the school has faced challenges with student performance, though it offers extracurriculars like sports and clubs.

4. Miami Carol City Senior High School

   • Address: 3301 Miami Gardens Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056 (just outside 33055 but serves the area)
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • Rating: 3/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Distance: Approximately 2-4 miles
   • Details: A large public high school with a diverse student body, it offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career-focused programs. Graduation rates and test scores are below state averages, but the school has a strong athletic program and community involvement.

   Charter Schools Near 33055

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with specialized curricula. Here are a couple near the Starlight community:

5. Excelsior Charter Academy

   • Address: 18200 NW 22nd Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33056 (near 33055)
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: Not widely rated on GreatSchools; limited data available
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Details: This charter school emphasizes a structured learning environment. Reviews from parents are mixed, with some praising small class sizes and others noting resource limitations.

6. Beacon College Preparatory Charter School

   • Address: 13400 NW 28th Ave, Opa-locka, FL 33054 (close to 33055)
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: 5/10 (GreatSchools.org)
   • Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles
   • Details: Focuses on college readiness with a rigorous curriculum. Test scores are near state averages in some subjects.

   Private Schools Near 33055

   Private schools offer alternative education options, often with religious affiliations or specialized programs. Here are a few nearby:

7. William A. Kirlew Junior Academy

   • Address: 18900 NW 32nd Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
   • Grade Levels: K-8
   • Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools; parent reviews are generally positive
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Details: A Seventh-day Adventist school focusing on Christian education and academic excellence. Tuition applies, and class sizes are typically smaller than public schools.

8. Gospel Tabernacle Christian Academy

   • Address: 3311 NW 189th St, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • Rating: Limited data; mixed parent feedback
   • Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Details: A faith-based school offering a full range of grade levels with an emphasis on spiritual and academic growth. Tuition and enrollment details should be confirmed directly.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools.org ratings are based on test scores, equity, and student progress, but they don’t capture everything (e.g., school culture, teacher quality, or specific programs). A lower rating doesn’t necessarily mean a school is a poor fit for your child.
   • School Zoning: Public school assignments depend on your exact address within 33055. You can confirm zoning through the M-DCPS School Locator tool (available on their website: www.dadeschools.net).
   • Other Factors: Consider visiting schools, attending open houses, or speaking with current parents to get a sense of the environment. Extracurriculars, safety, and proximity may also influence your decision.

   Resources for Further Information

   • Miami-Dade County Public Schools: www.dadeschools.net (for zoning, enrollment, and school performance reports)
   • GreatSchools.org: For detailed ratings and parent reviews
   • Florida Department of Education: For state-level data and school report cards (www.fldoe.org)

   If you have a specific address in the Starlight community, I can help narrow down the exact zoned schools. Additionally, if you’re looking for schools with particular programs (e.g., STEM, arts, or special needs support), let me know, and I can provide more targeted information. Would you like me to dig deeper into any specific school or aspect?