Local Schools Near Waterleaf, Jacksonville, 32225

The Waterleaf community in Jacksonville, FL, with the ZIP code 32225, is located in the eastern part of the city near the St. Johns River and close to areas like East Arlington and Fort Caroline. Below, I’ll provide information on schools near this community, 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 can vary depending on the source and may change over time, so I recommend verifying the latest information through the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) website or visiting the schools. Distances are approximate and based on typical proximity to the Waterleaf area.

Public Schools Near Waterleaf (32225)

Public schools in this area are part of the Duval County Public Schools system. Here are the schools zoned for or near the Waterleaf community, based on typical zoning for the 32225 area (zoning can depend on exact address, so confirm with DCPS):

1. Abess Park Elementary School

   • Address: 12731 Abess Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 1-2 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-5
   • GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
   • Details: Abess Park is well-regarded for its academic performance and offers a variety of programs, including gifted education. It serves many families in the East Arlington area, including Waterleaf. Test scores in math and reading are generally above the district average.
   • Parent Feedback: Often praised for strong teacher involvement and a supportive community environment.

2. Landmark Middle School

   • Address: 101 Kernan Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32225
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Grade Levels: 6-8
   • GreatSchools Rating: 6/10
   • Details: Landmark Middle serves as the zoned middle school for much of the 32225 area. It has a diverse student body and offers various extracurricular activities. Academic performance is around the district average, with some areas for improvement in student progress metrics.
   • Parent Feedback: Mixed reviews; some appreciate the school’s programs, while others note challenges with class sizes.

3. Sandalwood High School

   • Address: 2750 John Prom Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 4-5 miles
   • Grade Levels: 9-12
   • GreatSchools Rating: 5/10
   • Details: Sandalwood is one of the larger high schools in Duval County and is likely the zoned high school for Waterleaf residents. It offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career academies, and a variety of sports and clubs. Test scores are near the district average, with graduation rates slightly below state averages.
   • Parent Feedback: Some parents value the diverse offerings, while others mention concerns about school size and student support.

   Private Schools Near Waterleaf (32225)

   For families seeking alternatives to public schools, there are several private and charter options within a reasonable distance of Waterleaf.

4. Providence School of Jacksonville

   • Address: 2701 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 5-6 miles
   • Grade Levels: PK-12
   • GreatSchools Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools (private school), but highly regarded in the community
   • Details: A Christian-based private school offering a rigorous academic curriculum with a focus on faith-based education. It has strong college preparatory programs and extracurriculars. Tuition is typically in the range of $10,000-$15,000 per year, depending on grade level.
   • Parent Feedback: Often praised for small class sizes, academic excellence, and a strong sense of community.

5. Greenwood School

   • Address: 9920 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 3-4 miles
   • Grade Levels: 6-12
   • GreatSchools Rating: Not rated on GreatSchools (private school)
   • Details: Greenwood specializes in serving students with learning differences, such as dyslexia or ADHD, offering individualized instruction. Tuition varies based on student needs.
   • Parent Feedback: Highly valued by parents of students who need tailored learning environments.

   Charter Schools Near Waterleaf (32225)

   Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently, often with specific educational focuses. Enrollment may require a lottery or application.

6. Seacoast Charter Academy

   • Address: 9100 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
   • Distance from Waterleaf: Approximately 3 miles
   • Grade Levels: K-5
   • GreatSchools Rating: 7/10
   • Details: A smaller charter school with a focus on arts-integrated learning. It emphasizes creativity alongside core academics.
   • Parent Feedback: Generally positive reviews for its unique approach and smaller class sizes.

   Additional Notes

   • School Zoning: The exact schools assigned to a Waterleaf address can vary slightly based on specific street boundaries. Use the Duval County Public Schools’ “School Finder” tool (available on their website, dcps.duvalschools.org) by entering your address to confirm zoning.
   • Ratings Context: GreatSchools ratings are a starting point but don’t capture everything (e.g., school culture, specific programs). Visiting schools or attending open houses can provide deeper insight.
   • Transportation: Duval County provides bus services for public school students within zoning guidelines, though Waterleaf’s proximity to schools like Abess Park may mean short drives for some families. Private and charter schools may not offer transportation.
   • Other Options: If families are open to schools slightly farther away (e.g., 7-10 miles), additional high-rated options like Kernan Trail Elementary (8/10) or Atlantic Coast High School (7/10) might be accessible, though they may not be zoned for Waterleaf.

   How to Research Further

   • Duval County Public Schools Website: dcps.duvalschools.org for zoning, enrollment, and school performance data.
   • GreatSchools.org: For updated ratings and parent reviews.
   • Florida Department of Education: For state report cards and detailed statistics on school performance.
   • School Visits: Contact schools directly to schedule tours or attend open houses, especially for private and charter options.

   If you have a specific address within Waterleaf or preferences (e.g., focus on STEM, arts, or special needs programs), I can refine this list further. Let me know!