This article is an in-depth look at my Complete Guide to Lake Nona, where I present all aspects of the community.
Here, I will focus exclusively on the schools in Lake Nona, one of the most important factors in the decision to purchase properties for Brazilian families I serve in Orlando.
I have already accompanied clients who chose this region precisely because of quality of public schools — many rated “A” by the state of Florida — and for offering unique academic programs.
🏫 Public Schools in Lake Nona
Lake Nona is part of the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), one of the largest school districts in Florida. The area's schools have an excellent reputation, with high grades and modern infrastructure.
📋 Main public options
| 🏫 School Name | 🎓 Levels | 📍 Location / Neighborhood | ⭐ Differentials |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏫 Lake Nona High School | 🎓 9th to 12th grade (high school) | 📍 Narcoossee Rd | ⭐Has the Collegiate Academy in partnership with Valencia College, allowing students to take university courses alongside high school. |
| 🏫 Lake Nona Middle School | 🎓 6th to 8th grade | 📍 Lake Nona | ⭐ Complete structure, dedicated teachers, “A” rating. |
| 🏫Luminary Middle School | 🎓 6th to 8th grade | 📍Lake Nona (opening 2024) | ⭐ Innovative curriculum, focus on technology and engagement. |
| 🏫 Laureate Park Elementary | 🎓 Pre-K to 5th grade | 📍 Laureate Park | ⭐ Modern facilities, intensive use of technology. |
| 🏫 NorthLake Park Community School | 🎓 Elementary | 📍 NorthLake Park | ⭐ Partnership with the YMCA, strong community integration. |
🔎 In practice, many families choose where to live in Lake Nona thinking about school zone. Who wants access to Lake Nona High School, for example, look for properties near Narcoossee Rd. Families with young children prioritize being close to the Laureate Park Elementary.
🏫📚 Private schools and early childhood education
In addition to public facilities, Lake Nona and the surrounding area offer private options and preschools, highly sought after by Brazilian families who want curricular flexibility or religious education.
| 🏫 Name | 🎓 Levels | 📍 Location | ⭐ Differentials |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏫 Faith Christian Academy | 🎓 PK to 12th grade | 📍 Orlando, near Lake Nona | ⭐ Christian school, positive environment and diversity. |
| 🏫 Trinity Preparatory School | 🎓 6th to 12th grade | 📍 Winter Park (next) | ⭐ One of the most renowned in the region, strong in STEM and extracurricular activities. |
| 🏫 La Petite Academy, Primrose School, The Learning Experience | 🎓 Preschool | 📍 NorthLake Park and surrounding area | ⭐ Highly sought after by families who value early child development. |
🎓 Advanced Programs (AP, IB, and Dual Enrollment)
- 📚 Advanced Placement (AP): present at several OCPS schools, including Lake Nona High. They allow advanced courses with college credit.
- 🎓 Dual Enrollment: At Lake Nona High, students can take courses in the Valencia College still in high school.
- 🌍 International Baccalaureate (IB): available at some schools near the Orlando metropolitan area, with international recognition.
💡 These programs are highly valued by Brazilian families considering universities in the US or returning to Brazil.
📈 Quality indicators
- 🏅 Many Lake Nona schools are rated as “A-rated” (Florida's top score).
- 💻 Modern structures, with technology in the classroom.
- 🏊 Sports, cultural programs and community partnerships, such as the one with the YMCA.
- 👶 A good selection of preschools for those who value quality early childhood education.
🏠 This set of factors also contributes to the appreciation of properties in the region, as families prioritize neighborhoods with good schools.
🧭 Important points for Brazilian families
- 🎓 Dual Enrollment: excellent value for money, accumulating university credits at no additional cost.
- 💵 Toilet costs: Tuition fees can be high; many families prefer to invest in a home in an area with good public schools.
- 📍 Location: living close to the desired school reduces daily commutes.
- 🌐 International recognition: AP and IB programs open doors to universities in Brazil and abroad.
✅ I've seen families move from renowned private schools in Orlando to the Lake Nona school zone, just to match quality education at a lower cost.
✅ Conclusion
The school system in Lake Nona is one of the region's great differentiators. With “A-rated” public options, advanced academic programs and good private alternatives, Brazilian families find a balance here between quality education and quality of life.
What are the best public schools in Lake Nona?
Among the best rated are Lake Nona High School, Lake Nona Middle School and Laureate Park Elementary, all of which rank highly in the state of Florida.
Is there a new school in Lake Nona?
Yes, the Luminary Middle School opened in 2024 with a focus on technology and an innovative curriculum.
How much does it cost to study at private schools in the region?
Tuition fees vary widely, but renowned schools can have high tuition fees. Many Brazilian families prefer to invest in a home in an area with good public schools.
What is Dual Enrollment and how does it work?
It's a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses. At Lake Nona High, this is done in partnership with Valencia College.
Are there preschool options in Lake Nona?
Yes, schools like La Petite Academy, Primrose School and The Learning Experience are highly sought after for early childhood education.
Are AP and IB programs accepted in Brazil?
Yes, both have international recognition, which facilitates access to universities outside the US and in Brazil.
📞 Let's talk?
If you are considering moving to Lake Nona and want to align your home purchase with the best school choice for your children, contact meI'd love to help you map out the options that best suit your profile.
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