The Best Private Schools in Margate, Florida
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Margate. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
University School of Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University
University School is a highly regarded independent college preparatory school known for its rigorous academic programs and strong ties to Nova Southeastern University. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses, with a focus on personalized learning. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Parent satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities including robotics, athletics, and community service programs. The school serves students from Margate and throughout Broward County with a commitment to academic excellence and character development.
Programs:
Scheck Hillel Community School
Jewish Community Day School
Scheck Hillel Community School is a top-rated Jewish day school serving students from Margate and across South Florida with a rigorous academic program infused with Jewish values. The school offers a college preparatory curriculum, Advanced Placement courses, and a dual-language program in English and Hebrew. Facilities include innovative learning spaces, a STEM lab, art studios, and athletic amenities. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to the school's commitment to academic excellence, small class sizes, and diverse extracurricular activities including athletics, arts, and leadership programs. The school is known for its inclusive community and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
Programs:
Coral Springs Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Coral Springs Christian Academy is a premier private school offering a Christ-centered education with strong academic foundations. The school features a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum, integrated technology, and robust fine arts programs. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, a gymnasium, and athletic fields. Parent reviews highlight the supportive community, experienced teachers, and emphasis on spiritual growth. Extracurricular options include sports, music, drama, and mission trips, serving families from Margate and the broader Coral Springs area with a focus on holistic student development.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Margate, Florida
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Margate, Florida, and are there any located directly within the city?
While Margate itself has a limited number of standalone private campuses, families in Margate have excellent access to several top-rated private schools in the immediate surrounding cities of Broward County. Notable options include the University School of Nova Southeastern University in Davie (a Pre-K-12 college-preparatory school), Coral Springs Christian Academy in Coral Springs (a Pre-K-12 Christian school), and the Scheck Hillel Community School in North Miami Beach (a prominent Jewish day school). Many Margate residents also consider private schools in nearby Coconut Creek, Parkland, and Fort Lauderdale. Transportation or carpooling is a common consideration for Margate families attending these schools.
How does Florida's school choice scholarship programs, like the Family Empowerment Scholarship, affect private school tuition for Margate residents?
Florida's expansive school choice programs significantly impact affordability for Margate families. The Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES) and the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) provide state-funded scholarships that can be used at participating private schools. Eligibility is based on household income, with many middle-income families now qualifying. Most of the major schools near Margate, including Coral Springs Christian Academy and others, accept these scholarships. It is crucial for parents to apply for these programs early, as funding is limited, and to confirm directly with each school about their participation and any remaining tuition gaps after scholarship application.
What unique academic or specialized programs are offered by private schools in the Margate area that leverage South Florida's location?
Private schools in the Greater Margate area often feature programs that capitalize on South Florida's diverse, international, and coastal environment. For example, the University School of Nova Southeastern University offers robust marine science and environmental research opportunities through its affiliation with the university. Many schools, including Scheck Hillel, have strong dual-language programs (Spanish/Hebrew) and international baccalaureate (IB) or global studies tracks that reflect the region's cultural diversity. Additionally, schools often incorporate unique electives like coastal ecology, international business, and performing arts that connect with South Florida's vibrant arts and business communities.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools near Margate, Florida, such as University School or Scheck Hillel?
The timeline for top private schools in the Margate vicinity is highly structured and begins early. For the following academic year, applications typically open in September or October, with priority deadlines between December and February. The process almost always includes a parent interview, student assessment/visit, submission of transcripts, and teacher recommendations. Schools like University School and Scheck Hillel can have waiting pools, especially for popular entry grades like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 6th grade. Margate families are advised to start research and attend open houses in the fall, a full year before desired enrollment. Rolling admissions may exist but are less common for these sought-after institutions.
For a family moving to Margate, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public schools (Broward County Public Schools) to private school options in the area?
Key considerations include class size, academic focus, and community environment. Margate's public schools are part of the large Broward County Public School district, offering standardized curricula and diverse extracurriculars. Private schools near Margate typically offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students vs. 25+ in public), more individualized attention, and a specific educational philosophy (e.g., religious, college-prep, project-based). Transportation is a major factor; Broward County provides busing for public school students, while private schools may offer limited bus routes from central locations, requiring personal transportation from Margate. Finally, the cost of private tuition (even with scholarships) versus the free public option must be weighed against the value of specialized programs and perceived campus environment.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities