✨ Where the Magic Meets Academics
If you’re dreaming of Main Street views and Mickey-shaped waffles, but you’ve also got school-aged kids to consider, you’re in the right place. One of the most common questions I get from relocating families is:
“Are there good schools near Disney?”
The answer is a resounding yes—and not just good, but great. Whether you’re looking at public schools, private academies, or innovative charter options, the areas around Walt Disney World offer access to some of Central Florida’s top-rated education.
Let’s break down your options so you can make a smart, confident choice for your family—and still catch Happily Ever After fireworks in the evening.
🏡 Understanding the Disney Bubble School Zones
Before we talk schools, let’s talk zones. The Disney Bubble stretches across several counties, and school assignments can vary significantly depending on your address.
🎯 Counties to Know:
- Orange County (OCPS) – Includes Dr. Phillips, Windermere, and Horizon West
- Osceola County (SDOC) – Covers Celebration, Reunion, and parts of Four Corners
- Lake County (LCS) – Includes parts of Clermont and southern Winter Garden
🧠Pixie Dust Pro Tip: School zoning is ultra-specific here. One street over can mean a different elementary or high school, so it’s smart to work with a local expert (like yours truly) who knows how to match homes to top-performing schools.
đź“š Top-Rated Public Schools Near Disney
If you’re leaning toward public education, good news: several schools in the Disney area consistently earn high marks for academics, sports, and community involvement.
🌟 Windermere:
- Sunset Park Elementary – A-rated and beloved by local families
- Bridgewater Middle School – Strong academic record + supportive staff
- Windermere High School – One of the largest and most modern in the area
🌟 Winter Garden:
- Independence Elementary – Strong parental involvement and academics
- Water Spring Middle – Newer campus with excellent facilities
- Horizon High School – A beautifully built, future-forward high school opened in 2021
🌟 Dr. Phillips:
- Dr. Phillips High School – Home to the Visual & Performing Arts magnet program and top-tier athletics
🎓 Bonus Tip: School ratings often influence home values and resale appeal—so buying in a top-rated zone is smart for your child and your investment.
🏫 Private School Options Worth Exploring
Prefer smaller class sizes or a faith-based education? These private schools near Disney deliver in academics, extracurriculars, and campus amenities.
- Windermere Preparatory School
Pre-K to 12 | IB World School | Lakeside campus with international flair - Foundation Academy
Christ-centered education across multiple campuses | Strong in academics & athletics - Montverde Academy
Elite prep school | Boarding + day students | Top sports programs - The First Academy
Christian-based | College-prep academics | Exceptional arts and athletics
✨ Many private schools here offer rolling admissions, which gives families flexibility when timing their move.
🧠Charter Schools & Magnet Programs to Consider
Charter schools are tuition-free and often offer unique academic focuses—great for families seeking alternatives to traditional public schools.
Local Favorites:
- Hamlin Charter Academy – A brand-new, innovative school in Horizon West
- Orlando Science Schools – STEM-focused and highly ranked (though a bit farther out)
- Four Corners Charter School – Convenient for multi-county families
Don’t forget magnet programs through Orange County Public Schools—these offer specialized tracks in arts, STEM, and dual enrollment.
đź“‹ What to Look for When Choosing a School
Here’s your quick checklist for school shopping in the Disney Bubble:
âś… Academic performance (check GreatSchools.org)
âś… Extracurricular offerings (sports, music, STEM)
âś… Class sizes + student-teacher ratio
âś… School culture (schedule a visit!)
âś… Commute time (remember: traffic near the parks is real)
âś… Reviews from local parents (Facebook + Nextdoor goldmines)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Pro Tips for Relocating Families
Moving with kids is a juggling act, but here’s how to keep the process smooth and magical:
- 🎯 Lock in your home before school enrollment deadlines
- đź“… Time your move with school calendars (late spring or summer is ideal)
- 🧩 School Choice may offer more flexibility than you think
- 🤝 Lean on your real estate agent (me!) to help filter homes by zone and navigate school boundaries
🏰 And…that’s a Wrap!
Living near Disney doesn’t mean sacrificing academic excellence—in fact, you may be surprised by just how enchanting your options are. From A-rated public schools and elite private campuses to charter gems and STEM magnet programs, the Disney Bubble is full of smart choices for every kind of learner.
👋 Ready to relocate to a place where your kids can learn, grow, and catch fireworks on a Tuesday night? Let’s find the perfect home—and the perfect school—together. Call or text me at 321-364-4844.
Give me more details before we chat too! 🙂
