K-8 Schools southern Miami area - recommendations? (Palmetto, South Miami: magnet school, price)

[formerfire]

Hi all, gradually getting there with my school search. Can anyone tell me which of these are highly recommended by parents or community? And which to definitely avoid?

I have 3 kids 10, 8 , 7, Aussies. Not particularly looking for Arts magnet - one child is maths/science stream. Thanks so much


Ada-Merrit

Bob Graham Education Center

Coral Way k8 Center

Devon Aire k8 Center

Everglades K8

Frank C Martin

Jane S Roberts

Kenwood K8

Leewood K8

South Miami K8

Vineland K8

Winston Park K8

[Boatdrinks99]

Are you considering Palmetto Elementary and Palmetto Middle School?

[formerfire]

Originally Posted by Boatdrinks99

Are you considering Palmetto Elementary and Palmetto Middle School?

No am hoping to put all 3 in a K-8 then a good high school. That is in theory, and before we have actually got there.

[Boatdrinks99]

Well, just so you know, Palmetto Elementary School and Palmetto Middle School are on the same block. They are separated by a large playground/athletic field. But proximity wise, they are literally on the same piece of land. Not sure if that makes a difference. But there is something about having just the little kids in one place and separated from the big kids at another place - but still have them quite close to aid in the drop off. You can look them up on Google maps, on the satellite view you can see how close they are together.

The high school, Palmetto High School, is probably the best rated high school in Miami Dade that is not a magnet school. It too is one block away from the elementary school and the middle school.

[formerfire]

Originally Posted by Boatdrinks99

Well, just so you know, Palmetto Elementary School and Palmetto Middle School are on the same block. They are separated by a large playground/athletic field. But proximity wise, they are literally on the same piece of land. Not sure if that makes a difference. But there is something about having just the little kids in one place and separated from the big kids at another place - but still have them quite close to aid in the drop off. You can look them up on Google maps, on the satellite view you can see how close they are together.

The high school, Palmetto High School, is probably the best rated high school in Miami Dade that is not a magnet school. It too is one block away from the elementary school and the middle school.

Oh thanks that is great to know. That way my son would get a year with sisters, then move on with all his newfound friends. Sounds like a win-win. I will definitely visit this school as well.

[feelquiet]

You may wish to also check the various schools FCAT (standardized test) scores. While the FCAT is flawed, it gives you a basic idea of how schools stack up against each other. Check miami-dade county and search all the schools here: Florida's Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT)

You can also get info on basic demographic makeup and other things from the FLDOE and individual schools. You can find out how many students have English as a second language (a % that may surprise someone from AUS), etc.

I second the Palmetto schools above for an excellent all-round public education. Unfortunately, housing within the Palmetto school district can be pricey.