Private Schools and Daycares in Windermere – (Overview of private education options and early childhood centers)

Windermere FL Schools: The Ultimate Guide for Families and Homebuyers

By Andy Neal – Top Windermere Realtor and Local Schools Expert

If you’re considering moving to Windermere, FL, or you’re already here and exploring the area’s educational landscape, you’re in for a treat. As a Windermere Realtor who works with families every day, I can confidently say that one of the most common reasons buyers choose Windermere is because of the exceptional schools. From top-rated public institutions in the Orange District Schools system to prestigious private schools like Windermere Prep, Windermere has become a magnet for families focused on education and lifestyle.

Public Schools in Windermere: Orange County’s Finest

The Windermere FL schools are some of the most sought-after in the entire Greater Orlando area. Most are part of the Orange County Public School system (OCPS), and their website (ocps.net) is a fantastic resource. To confirm school assignments for a home, simply go to the OCPS homepage, click “Newcomers,” then scroll down to “Find My School.” It’s an easy way to check zoning and ensure you’re buying in the right district. Want to see updated district boundaries? A quick Google search like “Windermere FL High School District Map” usually turns up what you need—but be sure it’s from the official OCPS site to avoid outdated information.

Windermere High School & Area High Schools

Windermere High School is the pride of western Windermere. Located at 5523 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere, FL 34786, this relatively new school is known for its beautiful campus and strong academic and extracurricular programs. Some parts of northern Windermere are zoned for West Orange High School, while eastern Windermere and Windermere Town fall under Olympia High School, located just north of The Grove Shopping Center at 4301 South Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32835. All three Orange high schools offer excellent opportunities for students, each with a unique campus and culture.

Middle Schools Near Windermere

There’s no shortage of great middle schools near Windermere. Bridgewater Middle School, located in nearby Winter Garden, has been extremely popular, although recent growth has led to some crowding. That said, OCPS has already addressed this with new construction in Horizon West. Horizon West Middle School, located at 8200 Tattant Blvd, Windermere, FL 34786, is one of the newest additions and serves families in the heart of West Orange. Chain of Lakes Middle School, while technically outside city limits, is located just east of Windermere and serves families in Olympia High’s zone. Gotha Middle School sits on the northern edge of Windermere near communities like Tuscany Ridge. Each of these middle schools has something unique to offer and serves different parts of Windermere and West Orange.

Private Schools in Windermere: Premier Options for Academic Excellence

Let’s talk about Windermere Prep. Officially known as Windermere Preparatory School (or Windermere Prep FL), this institution is one of Florida’s top-ranked private schools. With a student-teacher ratio of 13:1 and an internationally recognized curriculum, Windermere Prep attracts students from all over the globe. For the 2024–25 school year, Windermere has five private schools serving over 2,000 students—nearly 20% of all local K–12 enrollment, compared to Florida’s 14% state average. Private schools in Windermere range from religious academies to progressive prep schools, offering families a variety of educational philosophies and specialized programs. Even if your family doesn’t need private schools, their presence helps maintain strong resale values for local properties—a point I always highlight when advising my clients.

Elementary Schools, Daycares & Early Learning Centers

We can’t forget about the little ones. While not listed in detail above, Windermere is home to many excellent elementary schools and daycares. Premier Academy is a standout for early childhood education, with over 30 years of experience in toddler and preschool programs. KinderCare Learning Centers are also present in Windermere and offer year-round programs from 6 weeks through 12 years old. These early learning institutions help build strong academic foundations and are often a key consideration when families decide to move to Windermere. As a Windermere Realtor, I’m frequently asked which elementary schools are best—and because school zones can impact home values, I make sure my clients are well-informed before making a purchase.

Home Schooling & Real Estate School Resources

Windermere is also a supportive community for home schooling. Many families choose home schools for flexibility or religious reasons, and the area provides access to enrichment centers, co-ops, and extracurricular programs to round out the educational experience. For adults or professionals interested in continuing education, there are also several real estate schools nearby, offering pre-licensing and advanced courses.

Choosing the Right School: Tips for Windermere Families

✔ Start Early – Competitive schools and daycares in Windermere often have waitlists. ✔ Schedule Tours – Many private schools and prep schools offer virtual and in-person tours. ✔ Check Accreditations – Ensure the school is recognized by respected educational authorities. ✔ Talk to a Local Realtor – As a Windermere Realtor, I can help match you with neighborhoods near your preferred schools. ✔ Read Reviews & Talk to Parents – Learn from those who know the schools firsthand.

Ready to Find a Home in Your Ideal School Zone?

Whether you’re relocating for Windermere Prep, looking to buy near Windermere High or Olympia High School, or simply want to be in a top elementary or middle school zone, I’m here to help. As a trusted Windermere Realtor, I specialize in pairing families with the right home and the right school district. Contact me, Andy Neal, today for a personalized consultation, school zone insights, and expert guidance on buying or selling your home in Windermere, Florida.