Local Schools Near Waterside, Lake Mary, 32746

The community of Waterside in Lake Mary, FL (ZIP code 32746) is located in Seminole County, which is known for its highly-rated public school system. Below, I’ll provide information on the schools near the Waterside community, including public schools zoned for this area and some private school options. I’ll also include 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 most current information through the Seminole County Public Schools website or visiting the schools.

Public Schools Near Waterside, Lake Mary, FL (32746)

The public schools listed below are typically assigned based on zoning for the Waterside community. Lake Mary is served by Seminole County Public Schools, which is one of the top-rated districts in Florida. You can confirm zoning for a specific address using the district’s school locator tool at www.scps.k12.fl.us.

1. Lake Mary Elementary School

   • Type: Public Elementary (Grades K-5)
   • Address: 132 S Country Club Rd, Lake Mary, FL 32746
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 1-2 miles
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 8/10
   • Overview: Lake Mary Elementary is well-regarded for its strong academic programs and community involvement. It often receives high marks for student performance in reading and math. The school also offers extracurricular activities and a focus on STEM education.

2. Greenwood Lakes Middle School

   • Type: Public Middle (Grades 6-8)
   • Address: 601 Lake Park Dr, Lake Mary, FL 32746
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 7/10
   • Overview: Greenwood Lakes Middle School serves students in the Lake Mary area and is known for its diverse programs, including advanced coursework and extracurriculars like band and sports. It has a solid reputation for preparing students for high school.

3. Lake Mary High School

   • Type: Public High (Grades 9-12)
   • Address: 655 Longwood Lake Mary Rd, Lake Mary, FL 32746
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 2-3 miles
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 8/10
   • Overview: Lake Mary High School is one of the top high schools in Seminole County, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career academies, and extracurricular activities. It has a strong athletics program and a reputation for academic excellence.

   Private Schools Near Waterside, Lake Mary, FL (32746)

   For families considering private education, there are several options within a reasonable distance of the Waterside community. These schools often have different admission processes and tuition costs, so contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information is recommended.

4. Holy Cross Lutheran Academy

   • Type: Private (Grades PK-8)
   • Address: 5450 Holy Cross Ct, Sanford, FL 32771 (near Lake Mary)
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 5 miles
   • Rating: Not widely rated on GreatSchools.org, but reviews highlight a strong faith-based curriculum and small class sizes.
   • Overview: This school offers a Christian-based education with an emphasis on academic rigor and character development. It serves preschool through middle school students.

5. Lake Mary Preparatory School

   • Type: Private (Grades PK-12)
   • Address: 650 Rantoul Ln, Lake Mary, FL 32746
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 3 miles
   • Rating: Highly regarded in the community, though specific ratings vary. Often praised for college prep.
   • Overview: Lake Mary Prep is a private, college-preparatory school with a focus on individualized learning and global education. It offers a robust curriculum, including AP courses and international programs.

6. St. Peter’s Episcopal Preschool & Kindergarten

   • Type: Private (Preschool-Kindergarten)
   • Address: 700 Rinehart Rd, Lake Mary, FL 32746
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 2 miles
   • Rating: Not widely rated, but known for a nurturing environment.
   • Overview: This faith-based early education program focuses on preparing young children for elementary school with a blend of academic and social-emotional learning.

   Charter Schools Near Waterside, Lake Mary, FL (32746)

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

7. Choices in Learning Charter School

   • Type: Charter (Grades K-5)
   • Address: 893 E State Rd 434, Longwood, FL 32750 (near Lake Mary)
   • Distance from Waterside: Approximately 5 miles
   • Rating (GreatSchools.org): 9/10
   • Overview: This charter school emphasizes personalized learning and has a strong reputation for academic achievement. It often has a waitlist due to high demand.

   Additional Notes on School Ratings and Selection

   • GreatSchools.org Ratings: These ratings are based on test scores, student progress, equity, and other factors. However, they are just one tool to evaluate a school. Visiting schools, meeting with administrators, and talking to other parents can provide a fuller picture.
   • Seminole County Public Schools: The district as a whole is highly rated, often receiving an "A" grade from the Florida Department of Education. It’s known for strong academic performance, safety, and extracurricular opportunities.
   • School Zoning: Zoning can change, and specific addresses in Waterside may be assigned to different schools based on capacity or boundary updates. Use the Seminole County Public Schools zoning tool or contact the district at (407) 320-0000 to confirm.
   • Transportation: Public schools typically provide bus services for zoned students, while private and charter schools may have different transportation policies.

   How to Research Further

   • Visit Schools: Many schools offer open houses or tours, especially during enrollment periods.
   • Seminole County Public Schools Website: www.scps.k12.fl.us for zoning, calendars, and district information.
   • GreatSchools.org: For detailed ratings, reviews, and comparisons.
   • Florida Department of Education: For state-level data and school report cards.

   If you have a specific address within Waterside or additional criteria (e.g., special needs programs, specific grade levels), I can help narrow down the options further. Let me know!