Private Schools in Destin, Florida

Emerald Coast Institute of Technology is a highly-regarded private career and technical high school serving the Destin community. The school focuses on preparing students for both college and career success through rigorous academic programs combined with hands-on technical training. ECIT offers state-of-the-art facilities including modern labs for health sciences, information technology, and engineering. The school maintains small class sizes with experienced instructors who provide personalized attention. Programs include certifications in various technical fields alongside comprehensive college preparatory coursework, making it a top choice for families seeking career-focused education with strong academic foundations.

While technically a public school, Choctawhatchee High School's International Baccalaureate program serves as a premier academic option for Destin-area families seeking rigorous private-school-level education. The IB Diploma Programme is internationally recognized for its academic excellence and comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and global perspectives. The program consistently produces high achievement rates with students earning college credits and admission to top universities. Located just 15 minutes from Destin in Fort Walton Beach, this program attracts high-achieving students from across the region with its challenging curriculum, experienced IB-trained faculty, and outstanding college preparation track record.

Rocky Bayou Christian Academy is a well-established classical Christian school serving the greater Destin area from its Niceville campus, approximately 20 minutes away. With over four decades of educational excellence, RBCA offers a comprehensive K-12 program rooted in classical education principles and Christian values. The school features modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. Academic programs emphasize critical thinking, classical literature, and rigorous college preparation alongside strong STEM offerings. The school maintains high parent satisfaction through its committed faculty, safe learning environment, and comprehensive extracurricular programs including competitive athletics and fine arts.