The Best Private Schools in Windermere, Florida
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Windermere. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lake Highland Preparatory School
Independent
Lake Highland Preparatory School is one of Central Florida's most prestigious independent schools, consistently ranked among the top private schools in the state. Serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement offerings and specialized programs in STEM research. The campus features advanced science laboratories, technology centers, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. With a strong tradition of academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programs, Lake Highland serves families throughout the Orlando metropolitan area, including Windermere residents.
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The First Academy
First Baptist Church of Orlando
The First Academy is a premier Christian college preparatory school serving families throughout Central Florida, including Windermere. The school offers comprehensive academic programs from preschool through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on character development and spiritual growth. Academic offerings include honors and Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive fine arts opportunities. The 42-acre campus features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. The school maintains a strong college acceptance record with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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Windermere Preparatory School
Nord Anglia Education
Windermere Preparatory School is an internationally recognized private school offering comprehensive education from Pre-K through 12th grade. As part of the Nord Anglia Education global network, the school provides a rigorous International Baccalaureate curriculum alongside Advanced Placement courses. The 48-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes global learning opportunities and personalized education with small class sizes, serving both Windermere and the greater Orlando area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Windermere, Florida
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Windermere, Florida, and what are their key characteristics?
Windermere, FL, is served by several highly-regarded private schools, with the most prominent being Windermere Preparatory School, The First Academy, and Lake Highland Preparatory School. Windermere Prep, located within the town, is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering a global curriculum from Pre-K3 through 12th grade, with a strong focus on college preparation and athletics. The First Academy, located in nearby Orlando, is a Christian college-preparatory school offering a biblically-integrated curriculum. Lake Highland Prep, also in Orlando, is consistently ranked as one of Florida's top private schools, known for its rigorous academics, extensive Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, and renowned science research program. Many Windermere families also consider other Orlando-area schools, making the local private education market robust and competitive.
How does tuition for top private schools in the Windermere, Florida area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Florida residents?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Windermere varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $20,000 to over $30,000 annually for upper school, with lower school often slightly less. Lake Highland Prep and Windermere Prep are typically at the higher end of this spectrum, reflecting their extensive facilities and programs. Florida offers two major financial assistance programs for eligible families: the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and the Family Empowerment Scholarship. These state-sponsored programs can provide substantial tuition assistance for private school attendance based on financial need or other criteria, making private education more accessible. Each school also typically has its own need-based financial aid program, so parents are encouraged to apply for aid directly during the admissions process.
What unique academic or extracurricular specializations do Windermere-area private schools offer that distinguish them from each other?
The private schools serving Windermere families have distinct specializations. Windermere Preparatory School is unique for its full continuum International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is rare in the region, and its partnership with IMG Academy for elite sports training. The First Academy emphasizes a comprehensive Christian worldview integration across all subjects and offers strong fine arts programs. Lake Highland Preparatory School is nationally recognized for its Upper School Science Research Program, where students conduct original research and compete at the highest levels. All three schools offer robust college counseling, competitive athletic leagues (like the FHSAA), and advanced STEM initiatives, but their philosophical and programmatic cores are quite different, allowing parents to choose based on educational philosophy and student interest.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for competitive private schools in the Windermere, Florida area?
The enrollment process for top schools like Windermere Prep, The First Academy, and Lake Highland Prep is highly structured and competitive. The timeline typically begins in the early fall (September-October) for the following academic year. Key steps include: 1) Attending open houses or virtual tours (held in fall), 2) Submitting an application by January or February priority deadlines, 3) Completing student assessments and interviews (often in winter), and 4) Receiving admission decisions by March. Many schools have rolling admissions after priority deadlines, but waiting lists are common, especially for entry grades. Given the demand from Windermere's growing population, it is crucial to start the process early, especially for middle and high school entry points where space is most limited.
For families moving to Windermere, how do the local public schools (Orange and Lake County) compare with the private school options, and what factors should guide this decision?
Windermere is zoned for highly-rated public schools in Orange County (like Windermere High School) and Lake County, which are strong options with newer facilities. The decision between public and private often hinges on specific family priorities. Private schools in the area generally offer smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, specialized curricula (like IB or faith-based education), and often more extensive extracurricular and athletic resources. They also provide a consistent educational community, whereas public school zoning can change. The trade-off is the significant financial investment. For families valuing a specific pedagogical approach, religious education, or seeking a particular academic intensity (like a full IB diploma), the private options are compelling. It's advisable to tour both your zoned public school and several private schools to compare culture, programs, and fit for your child.