Tampa Bay Area Private Schools: Find the One For You
Hillsborough
Bayshore Christian School
3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa
813-839-4297; www.bayshorechristianschool.org
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The school’s college preparatory program focuses on core academic subjects, with enrichment programs in performing arts, visual arts, foreign language, computer, media science and physical education. Students have athletic opportunities at the middle school, junior varsity and varsity level. Upper school students are prepared for college through dual enrollment and advanced placement courses.
Berkeley Preparatory School
4811 Kelly Rd., Tampa
813-885-1673; www.berkeleyprep.org
As one of the leading Hillsborough county private schools, this coeducational, independent college-preparatory day school for children in Pre-K through grade 12 is dedicated to academic excellence, character development, the arts and athletics. Its curriculum is designed to support the talent and ambition of each student. Administrators and educators strive to instill a strong sense of morality, ethics and social responsibility in its students.
Carrollwood Day School
1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa
813-920-2288; www.carrollwooddayschool.org
The sixth school in the U.S. to offer all three International Baccalaureate programs, school leaders believe that education involves the whole child, including academics, character development, physical fitness and emotional intelligence. A highly qualified staff provides a rigorous education within a caring learning community. CDS aims to teach children how to think for a lifetime.
Christ the King Catholic School
3809 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa
813-876-8770; www.cks-school.org
Christ the King Catholic School delivers an academically challenging curriculum in a nurturing, Christ–centered environment. For over 65 years, CKS has served Pre-K4 through 8th grade students in a dynamic setting designed to build character, bolster confidence and develop future leaders. We invite you to learn more about CKS where we Love to Learn ~ Live to Serve!
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS
12015 Orange Grove Dr., Tampa
813-961-3087; www.corbettprep.com
Founded in 1968, teachers and administrators aim to provide a dynamic, caring and highly academic environment, offering the International Baccalaureate program as well as extensive fine arts, sports and technology programs to students in prekindergarten through eighth grade. Call to schedule a personal tour.
Corpus Christi Catholic School
9715 N. 56th St. Temple Terrace
813-988-1722; www.catholic-church.org/cccschool
The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to provide a Catholic educational experience in spirituality, scholarship and service. Challenging children to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally and physically, this school serves children from early childhood to eighth grade. By integrating Gospel values, they promote the practice of faith, nurture worship, community and service.
Early Learning Coalition
6800 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite 158, Tampa
813-515-2340; www.elchc.org
This organization specializes in the funding and delivery of quality early childhood care and education, after-school programs, and services to the children and families of Hillsborough County.
Hillsdale Christian Academy & Preschool
6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa
813-884-8250; www.hillsdalechristianacademy.org
This program provides a variety of activities and learning opportunities for children. The primary goal is to help children grow spiritually, socially, physically, intellectually and creatively. The staff is well-qualified and works hard to create a loving, Christian atmosphere conducive to a child’s development. Teachers utilize a variety of teaching techniques from traditional instruction to learning centers to hands-on learning through good, old fashioned play!
Kumon Math and Reading Centers 1-800-ABC-MATH; kumon.com
Kumon can give your child a lifetime of advantages. The Kumon Program is designed to advance your child’s math and reading skills and love for learning – providing an academic advantage throughout school. Kumon sparks critical thinking, establishes a pattern of success, and builds confidence that can lead to accelerated learning throughout life. Parents are encouraged to attend a free orientation at any of our Kumon Math and Reading Centers in the local community.
Learning for Life Academy (Engage Behavioral Health)
6507 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33625
813-445-4229; www.LearningForLifeAcademy.com
Learning for Life Academy is year-round schooling for children grades K through grade 5 with autism spectrum disorder, Down Syndrome, and other developmental delays. LFLA’s mission is to help students reach their full potential by using scientific, research-based intervention and care to create a highly structured, individualized program. With a low staff-to-student ratio, LFLA is able to apply principles of ABA and Applied Verbal Behavior, assess each student’s skills on a daily basis, monitor progress and modify teaching strategies.
Lee Academy for Gifted Education
8613 Twin Lakes Blvd., Tampa
813-931-3316; www.leegiftedacademy.com
The school’s approach to education is based on Dr. Barbara Clark’s integrative education model and strives to give equal importance to the four human functions — thinking/cognitive, feeling/emotional, physical/sensing and intuitive. It does not emphasize testing; however, its students score high on standardized and college tests.
Montessori Academies
Multiple locations
813-899-2345, www.montessoriacademies.com
Montessori classrooms provide a prepared environment where children are free to respond to their natural drive to work and learn. The children’s inherent love of learning is encouraged by giving them opportunities to engage in spontaneous, meaningful activities under the guidance of a trained adult. Through their work, the children develop concentration, motivation, persistence and discipline. Within this framework of order, the children progress at their own pace and rhythm, according to their individual capabilities, during the crucial years of development.
St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School
Three locations in Tampa
813-849-6200; www.stjohnseagles.org
The Tampa Bay area’s oldest Episcopal school has been nurturing academic excellence in a Christian environment since 1951. Grounded by a commitment to spiritual and ethical values, a love of learning and the development of strong character, the staff works to help students build a foundation to grow into caring and successful adults.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School
2101 S. Hubert Ave., Tampa
813-258-5508, www.smeds.org
Students experience challenging academics, exciting performing and visual arts, competitive athletics, enrichment classes, public speaking, foreign language and advanced technology, including iPads. Serving students in Pre-K through 8th grade, there is a focus on intellectual, spiritual and personal growth. Specific student goals include integrity, self-discipline, leadership, good citizenship, teamwork and a love for learning.
Tampa Preparatory School
727 W. Cass St., Tampa
813-251-8481; www.tampaprep.org
Tampa Preparatory School is the premier private school in the Tampa Bay area for students in grades 6-12. As a leader in education, the Tampa Preparatory School incorporates progressive ideas into the curriculum, schedule and facilities on a regular basis. Their educational philosophy instills values of fairness, decency, honor, diligence and academic curiosity. The School stresses the development of self-confidence, a sense of worth and the importance of having fun in the pursuit of one’s goals. Visit their open house on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 5:30 p.m.
The Psychological and Social Wellness Center
13009 Community Campus Drive, Tampa
813-960-1848; www.tjfs.org
Is your child gifted? Could they have a learning disability? Are you or someone in your family struggling with life’s difficulties? Our psychological services address these concerns and more. We offer psychotherapy and psychological assessments at a fraction of the cost typically associated with these services. Insurance plans are also accepted. To schedule a complimentary consultation or learn more, call 813-960-1848 or visit www.tjfs.org
Pasco
Academy at the Lakes
2220 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes
813-909-7919; www.academyatthelakes.org
The school aims to provide a learning community of shared values dedicated to the success of each individual at school, in the community and in the world. The school, which serves students in prekindergarten through 12th grade, aims to inspire lifelong learning and is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Open house on Jan. 12 from 9 – 11 a.m.
Pinellas
Admiral Farragut Academy
501 Park St. N. St Petersburg
727-384-5500; www.farragut.org
Admiral Farragut Academy is a co-ed, private, PreK-12 school that offers boarding for grades 8-12. Farragut offers more than just an education – it’s an experience, a journey, a launch point for life. The student body represents an average of 32 countries and 17 U.S. states. Signature programs include Aviation, Marine Science, Scuba, Sailing, Engineering, Naval Jr. ROTC, and Leadership. Summer day and boarding camps also offered. Discover what only Farragut students can experience.
Espiritu Santo Catholic School
2405A Philippe Pkwy, Safety Harbor
727.812.4650; www.ESCSchool.org
Centrally located in Safety Harbor, Espiritu Santo Catholic School provides excellence in education for over 400 students in grades PreK – 8. Espiritu Santo believes in the unique gifts of every child; experienced faculty guides students as they develop into confident scholars and faith-filled leaders. At ESCS, each student is challenged to reach their academic potential, encouraged to explore their faith, and inspired through service to act as reflections of Christ for the world.
Holy Family Catholic School
250 78th Avenue NE, St. Petersburg
727-526-8194; www.holyfamilycatholicschool.com
With Jesus, Mary and Joseph as our models, Holy Family Parish Catholic School prepares students for roles in the church, home, civic and global communities by educating them in their Catholic faith and in those skills necessary to foster academic excellence.
Montessori by the Sea
1603 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach
727-360-7621; www.montessori-by-sea.org
We proudly serve children from 3 – 12 years old in beautiful multi-age learning environments. We offer an authentic Montessori curriculum, including hands on learning, movement and guided discovery. We are just minutes away from St. Petersburg and Gulfport, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in historic Pass-A-Grille Beach. Montessori certified educators facilitate delivery of that curriculum in a manner that nurtures a life-long love of learning and instills a sense of wonder.
Northside Christian School
7777 62nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg
727-541-7593; www.nck12.com
A Christ-centered school of excellence equipping preschool – 12th grade students to reach their God-given potential through outstanding academic and extra-curricular programs since 1971. Elementary students learn to play a variety of instruments, and they have the opportunity to play all major sports culminating with at least 10% of high school seniors signing to play their sport of choice at the collegiate level. Academically, Northside is the only private school in Florida to win the prestigious national blue ribbon in 2016.
Palm Harbor Montessori Academy
2355 Nebraska Avenue, Palm Harbor
727-786-1854; PalmHarborMontessori.com
Palm Harbor Montessori Academy offers the highest quality Montessori education experience, developing well-rounded students with a focus on independence, courtesy and respect. With more than 33 years of experience, our individualized academic programs address the needs and goals of each child through our engaging, holistic and authentic Montessori approach. We are located on five spacious acres of beautiful, secure indoor and outdoor environments, including a pool, and have an incredibly engaged parent and volunteer community.
Safety Harbor Montessori Academy
2669 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater
(727)724-1767; www.safetyharbormontessori.com
Safety Harbor Montessori Academy seeks to inspire children to become passionate scholars and compassionate citizens, who are guided by a deep sense of integrity, responsibility, and determination to achieve their personal best. Our academic program is designed to be challenging, stimulating, and engaging to each student. We strive to help our students become independent workers, creative thinkers, strong collaborators, effective communicators, and avid problem solvers. Individual tours available, please call for an appointment.
Shorecrest Preparatory School
5101 First St. NE, St. Petersburg
727-456-7511; www.shorecrest.org
Since 1923, Florida’s oldest independent day school has provided the consummate college preparatory experience to students in preschool (age 3) through 12th grade. Award-winning teachers provide students with the foundation for lifetime achievement and the 100 percent college acceptance rate illustrates the school’s commitment to academic excellence. The school offers a flexible tuition program.
Westlake Christian School
1551 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor
727-781-3808; www.westlakechristianchool.org
Westlake Christian School is a K-8, college preparatory school dedicated to Teaching the Mind and Reaching the Heart of the next generation. Named a National Blue Ribbon School, Westlake holds accreditations from the Florida Kindergarten Council, the Florida Council of Independent Schools, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/AdvancED. Westlake offers a well-rounded program in all academic subjects, technology, fine arts, athletics and leadership.
Various Locations
Center Academy
727 541-5716; www.centeracademy.com
Lutz – 1520 Land O’Lakes Blvd.813 909-9442
Palm Harbor – 34054 US 19 N. 727 781-2986
Pinellas Park – 6710 86th Ave. N.727 541-5716
Riverview – 10518 Riverview Dr.813 677-7777
Happy. Secure. Inspired. Center Academy students in Lutz, Palm Harbor, Pinellas Park, and Riverview appreciate the individualized attention and support they receive. Parents appreciate opportunities for success. Founded in 1968 and SACS accredited, Center Academy provides a small, safe setting to help students to focus, organize, and learn. We work with students in grades 4-12 with ADHD and learning differences and accept McKay, Gardiner and Step Up Scholarships. Dual enrollment and summer programs are available.
Pepin Academies
3916 East Hillsborough Ave, Tampa
813-236-1755; www.pepinacademies.com
With a mission to create a high intensity, low threat therapeutic learning environment, this tuition-free, public charter school for student with learning or learning related disabilities serves students in grade 3-12 in Hillsborough and Pasco counties. The highly trained staff prepares students to meet academic, social and emotional challenges they encounter every day.
St. Petersburg Catholic High School
6333 9th Ave N, St. Petersburg
727.344.4065; www.spchs.org
St. Petersburg Catholic High School, operating under the auspices of the Diocese of St. Petersburg and administered by the Salesians of Don Bosco views the student as an individual and as a member of the Church and of society. The school seeks to provide each student with the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and physical aids needed to live a healthy and productive adult life in an ever-changing, diverse and multicultural world. It attempts to develop within the student body, parents/guardians, and faculty a strong sense of unity, not only for their mutual help, but as a foundation in the sense of Catholic witness and service to all.