Lakewood Ranch is known for its beautiful communities, family-friendly lifestyle, and top-rated schools. Whether you’re relocating to Florida or moving within Sarasota or Manatee County, this guide covers the full range of education options across Lakewood Ranch — from public and charter campuses to private academies and early learning centers.
In Addition, we go over tips on how to research, compare, and find the right neighborhood for your family.
Lakewood Ranch schools are primarily managed by Manatee County School District, with some southern neighborhoods zoned for Sarasota County Schools.
Robert E. Willis Elementary — PK-5 | A-rated, STEAM program
B.D. Gullett Elementary — PK-5 | A-rated, academic excellence
Gilbert W. McNeal Elementary — K-5 | Strong literacy programs
Lake Manatee East County School — Lakewood Ranch’s newest K-8 public school
Dr. Mona Jain Middle — 6-8 | Modern campus, strong STEM
R. Dan Nolan Middle — 6-8 | A-rated, excellent arts programs
McIntosh Middle – 6-8 (Sarasota County)
Lakewood Ranch High — 9-12 | A-rated, AP courses, athletics
Note: Some Sarasota County sections of Lakewood Ranch — especially around Waterside — may be zoned for Booker High School. Zoning boundaries can change, so it’s always best to confirm your address using the Sarasota County School Locator
Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy (LRPA) — K-12 | Tuition-free, college-prep academics, arts and athletics
Imagine School — K-8 | Project-based learning, small class sizes, community environment
Out-of-Door Academy (ODA) — PK-12 | College-prep, athletics, and arts
Beyond the Spectrum — Education Center and Therapy Clininc
The Classical Academy of Sarasota — K-12 | Classical education model
Pinnacle Academy — K-12 | Specialized support educating students who have learning differences
The Goddard School — play-based learning
Primrose School at Lakewood Ranch Town Center — year-round full-time and part-time education and care in Tampa for children starting at 6 weeks of age.
GreatSchools.org – 1-10 ratings, test scores, and equity data
Niche.com – A-to-F grades with reviews and surveys
Because Lakewood Ranch crosses county lines, always confirm zoning before buying.
Manatee County Schools – (Enrolment Management/ Residential Attendance Zones & School Locator)
*Information shared here is for informational purposes only and school zoning can change. Always contact the school board for the most up to date information on school boundaries.
Once you’ve found a few promising schools, visit the campuses or attend open houses to get a feel for class sizes, programs, and after-school options. You’ll learn a lot by talking to local parents in nearby neighborhoods — they often provide insights you won’t find online.
Finally, map out nearby communities that fit your lifestyle and commute needs.
Need help narrowing it down? We specialize in helping families move to Lakewood Ranch and find the perfect home in their ideal school zone.
Willis Elementary, Gullett Elementary, Nolan Middle, and Lakewood Ranch High have historically earned A ratings. However be sure to check school scores online as they change year to year.
Most schools in Lakewood Ranch are located in Manatee County, with Sarasota County zones south University Parkway.
Yes — Lakewood Ranch has many non public schools. Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy, Imagine School, and Out-of-Door Academy are just some of the more popular options.
Confirm with the local school boards for the most up to date information on school boundaries.
Yes, Lakewood Ranch has school choice. For more information:
Lakewood Ranch offers some of the best education options on Florida’s Gulf Coast — including A-rated public campuses, innovative charter programs, and private academies.— from A-rated public options to innovative charter and private programs. Whether you’re focused on academics, athletics, or arts, there’s a community here that fits your family’s goals.
Ready to explore your options?
Book a Free Relocation Consultation to find the right neighborhood and school combination for your move.