Located along the Gulf Coast of Florida, boasting year-round mild temperatures, beautiful ocean views and a good sense of community, St. Petersburg is a great place for families to live and learn. Many neighborhoods' safety rankings make it a prime place for families. Coupled with positive public school statistics, St. Pete is a good choice for parents who care about their child's education.
The city has several high schools, middle schools, grade schools and special charter schools with grade schools being the most plentiful in the area. Top-ranking grade schools in St. Petersburg include Lakeview Fundamental Elementary, Bay Vista Fundamental Elementary, and Pasadena Fundamental Elementary.
Thurgood Marshall Middle, Meadowlawn Middle, and Bay Point Middle are the three top-rated middle schools while St. Petersburg High, Lakewood High, and Northeast High rank as the top public high schools.
The state of Florida takes pride in high-quality education. Some middle schools are fused with high schools, but there are also separate institutions.
All of the St. Pete charter schools received good rankings in their educational, exercise, and nutrition programs. All of the charter schools take pride in serving raw fruits, vegetables and as many whole-grain choices as possible. Notable charter schools in St. Pete include St. Petersburg Collegiate High School, Imagine Charter School (K-5), and Imagine Middle School.
Aside from public schools in St. Petersburg, Florida, there are special schools that are open to all students. Montessori schools are a popular choice in St. Petersburg. The students in these educational settings usually test higher in creativity and critical thinking. They are encouraged to learn freely, using their own individual style. Montessori schools vary in price, depending on location and class size. The best Montessori schools in St. Petersburg include Alegria Montessori and Montessori By the Sea, both on St. Pete Beach, as well as Gulfport Montessori Elementary School.
Magnet schools that cater to specific areas of interest are also available in St. Petersburg. Students who plan to enter a career field specifically in science, math, art or other fields benefit from these institutions. Magnet schools also have varying rates. Some are smaller and may have a waiting list, so all parents in St. Pete who want their kids to attend one of the magnet schools must register as early as possible.
Notable magnet schools in St. Pete include Boca Ciega High School, John Hopkins Middle, and Campbell Park Elementary School.
Whichever route you choose, be sure to research thoroughly and keep your child's individual needs in mind when considering public schools in St. Petersburg.
