School Choices Detailed and Rated Theresa Arbor, Temple Terrace, 33617

The community of Theresa Arbor in Temple Terrace, FL, falls within the ZIP code 33617, which is part of Hillsborough 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, Niche, and the Florida Department of Education. Ratings are typically based on test scores, student progress, college readiness, and other factors. Keep in mind that ratings can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend visiting the schools or checking the most current data for confirmation. I’ll also include approximate distances from the Theresa Arbor community (based on a central point in Temple Terrace near Theresa Arbor).

Public Schools Near Theresa Arbor, Temple Terrace, FL (33617)

Public schools in this area are managed by the Hillsborough County Public Schools district. Here are the schools zoned for or near the 33617 area:

1. Lewis Elementary School

   • Type: Public Elementary (Grades PK-5)
   • Address: 6700 Whiteway Dr, Temple Terrace, FL 33617
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: 5/10 (as of recent data)
   • Niche Rating: C+
   • Notes: Lewis Elementary serves many students in the Temple Terrace area. It has a focus on foundational skills and offers programs like gifted education. Parent reviews often mention a supportive staff but note room for improvement in facilities.

2. Greco Middle School

   • Type: Public Middle (Grades 6-8)
   • Address: 6925 N 56th St, Tampa, FL 33617
   • Approximate Distance: 2-3 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: 4/10
   • Niche Rating: C
   • Notes: Greco Middle School serves the Temple Terrace community and offers various extracurricular activities. Test scores are below the state average in some areas, but the school has programs aimed at student engagement.

3. King High School

   • Type: Public High (Grades 9-12)
   • Address: 6815 N 56th St, Tampa, FL 33610
   • Approximate Distance: 3-4 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: 5/10
   • Niche Rating: B-
   • Notes: King High School offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is a draw for college-bound students. Graduation rates are solid, though test scores vary across subjects.

   Alternative Public Schools or Magnet Programs

   Hillsborough County offers magnet and choice programs that residents of 33617 may apply to, even if outside the immediate zoning. Some notable options include: - Terrace Community Middle School (Charter, Grades 6-8) - Address: 11734 Jefferson Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 - Approximate Distance: 5-6 miles - GreatSchools Rating: 7/10 - Notes: A highly regarded charter school with a focus on academics and character development. Admission is by lottery or application.

   Private Schools Near Theresa Arbor, Temple Terrace, FL (33617)

   There are several private and religious schools in or near the 33617 area for families seeking alternatives to public education.

4. Corpus Christi Catholic School

   • Type: Private Catholic (Grades PK-8)
   • Address: 9715 N 56th St, Temple Terrace, FL 33617
   • Approximate Distance: 1-2 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: Not rated (private schools often lack public ratings)
   • Niche Rating: A- (based on parent reviews and limited data)
   • Notes: Offers a faith-based education with a focus on academics and community. Tuition information is available directly from the school.

5. Florida College Academy

   • Type: Private Christian (Grades PK-12)
   • Address: 7032 Temple Terrace Hwy, Tampa, FL 33637
   • Approximate Distance: 2-3 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: Not rated
   • Niche Rating: B+
   • Notes: Affiliated with Florida College, this school emphasizes Christian values and college preparation. Class sizes are typically small, offering personalized attention.

6. American Youth Academy

   • Type: Private Islamic (Grades PK-12)
   • Address: 5905 E 130th Ave, Tampa, FL 33617
   • Approximate Distance: 3-4 miles from Theresa Arbor
   • GreatSchools Rating: Not rated
   • Niche Rating: A-
   • Notes: A well-regarded Islamic school offering a blend of secular and religious education. Known for strong community involvement and academic rigor.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools.org ratings (1-10) are based on test scores, equity, and other metrics, while Niche grades (A-F) incorporate parent reviews and additional data. A lower rating doesn’t necessarily mean a school is “bad”—it could reflect socioeconomic challenges or other factors. Visiting schools and speaking with staff or parents can provide deeper insight.
   • School Zoning: To confirm exact zoning for a specific address in Theresa Arbor, use the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ “Find My School” tool on their website (hcps.net). Zoning can change, and some areas near 33617 may be assigned to schools outside Temple Terrace.
   • Charter and Magnet Options: Hillsborough County has numerous charter and magnet schools that may require applications or lotteries. These can be excellent alternatives if public school ratings are a concern.
   • Higher Education: The University of South Florida (USF) is also located nearby in Tampa (about 2-3 miles from Theresa Arbor), which may offer dual-enrollment opportunities for high school students or community programs.

   How to Research Further

   • Hillsborough County Public Schools Website: hcps.net for zoning, school reports, and application details for magnet/charter programs.
   • GreatSchools.org: Detailed ratings and parent reviews for public and some private schools.
   • Niche.com: Broader reviews, including private schools, with community feedback.
   • Florida Department of Education: edudata.fldoe.org for official state report cards on public schools.
   • School Visits: Many schools offer tours or open houses, especially private institutions.

   If you have a specific address within Theresa Arbor or are looking for schools with particular programs (e.g., special needs, STEM focus, etc.), let me know, and I can refine the search further!