Dr. Phillips Education at a Glance
Dr. Phillips Education Highlight: Dr. Phillips families benefit from some of Orange County's highest-rated elementary schools, including Bay Meadows Elementary (ranked in the top 5% statewide) and Windy Ridge K-8 (with 97% Algebra 1 proficiency). The community's two comprehensive high schools offer nationally recognized magnet programs in performing arts, international studies, and STEM. Families considering Dr. Phillips homes for sale will find a strong educational foundation for their children.
"Dr. Phillips High School's performing arts program has produced nationally recognized talent including Wayne Brady, Joey Fatone, and DJ Khaled — a testament to the community's commitment to excellence beyond academics."
Related Reading: Best School Districts in Central Florida
Back to TopOrange County Public Schools
Dr. Phillips is served by Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the 8th largest school district in the United States and the 4th largest in Florida. OCPS earned an A district grade from the Florida Department of Education in both 2024 and 2025, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence across its 214 schools. Residents benefit from access to quality public education options including magnet programs, dual enrollment, and gifted academies throughout the district.
District Information:
- District Website: Orange County Public Schools (OCPS)
- Total Schools: 214 schools district-wide
- Students Enrolled: Approximately 208,000 students
- District Grade: A (Florida DOE, 2025)
- Special Programs: Magnet programs, AP, IB, Cambridge AICE, dual enrollment with Valencia College, gifted academies, STEM programs, and performing arts academies
School assignments are based on residential address. Visit the OCPS Find My School tool or contact the zoning office to verify which schools serve your specific address.
Education Highlights of Dr. Phillips
Dr. Phillips offers a distinctive blend of top-rated elementary schools, diverse magnet programs, and convenient access to higher education — making it one of the most attractive communities for families in the Orlando area. Many families moving to Central Florida specifically seek out Dr. Phillips for its educational opportunities, from STEAM-focused elementary schools to dual enrollment pathways at Valencia College. For comprehensive school information across Central Florida, visit our Orlando Schools Guide.
Top-Rated Elementary Schools
Bay Meadows Elementary ranks in the top 5% of all Florida schools with a GreatSchools rating of 9/10 and a STEAM Career Academy magnet program. Palm Lake Elementary also earns a 9/10 rating with strong gifted programs.
Renowned Magnet Programs
Dr. Phillips High School's Center for International Studies (CIS) and Visual & Performing Arts (VPA) magnets attract students from across Orange County. Olympia High offers JROTC and the APEX Academy.
Higher Education Access
Residents enjoy proximity to University of Central Florida (UCF), Valencia College (including the nearby West Campus), Rollins College, and Full Sail University.
Community & Enrichment
Beyond academics, Dr. Phillips offers youth sports leagues, tutoring centers, music programs, and arts enrichment. Explore things to do in Dr. Phillips for family-friendly activities year-round.
You may also enjoy: Orlando for Families
Back to TopDr. Phillips Schools Map
Explore schools and educational facilities in Dr. Phillips using this interactive map. For information about parks and recreation near these schools, see our parks guide.
Public Schools in Dr. Phillips
Dr. Phillips is zoned within Orange County Public Schools, with several highly rated schools serving the community's neighborhoods. Families searching for Dr. Phillips real estate often prioritize proximity to top-rated schools. For district-wide rankings, see our Best School Districts in Central Florida guide.
Top-Rated Public Schools
1Bay Meadows Elementary
GreatSchools 9/10, ranked in the top 5% of Florida schools. Home to the STEAM Career Academy magnet program with 75-81% math proficiency and 70-77% reading proficiency.
2Windy Ridge K-8
GreatSchools 9/10, serving PK-8 with an outstanding 97% Algebra 1 proficiency rate. Gifted program and Project Lead The Way STEM curriculum available.
3Palm Lake Elementary
GreatSchools 9/10. Known for its strong gifted program, 66% math proficiency, and a supportive parent community. Consistently rated among the area's top elementary options.
4Dr. Phillips Elementary
Niche A-rated. Located on Dr Phillips Boulevard with 74% math proficiency, 68% reading proficiency, and a Gifted & Talented program. Ranked in Florida's top 10%.
5Dr. Phillips High School
95% graduation rate with nationally recognized Visual & Performing Arts and Center for International Studies magnet programs. 61% AP participation rate and dual enrollment with Valencia College.
Elementary Schools
| School Name | Grades | Rating | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bay Meadows Elementary | PK-5 | 9/10 | 9150 S Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando | STEAM Career Academy magnet, top 5% in FL, 75-81% math proficiency |
| Palm Lake Elementary | K-5 | 9/10 | 8000 Pin Oak Dr, Orlando | Gifted program, strong parent engagement, 66% math proficiency |
| Dr. Phillips Elementary | PK-5 | 8/10 | 6909 Dr Phillips Blvd, Orlando | Gifted & Talented program, 74% math proficiency, top 10% in FL |
| Sand Lake Elementary | PK-5 | 7/10 | 8301 Buena Vista Woods Blvd, Orlando | Serves Sand Lake Hills area neighborhoods |
| Castleview Elementary | K-5 | 6/10 | 9131 Taborfield Ave, Orlando | Newer school opened 2019, 74% 3rd grade math proficiency |
K-8 Schools
| School Name | Grades | Rating | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windy Ridge K-8 | PK-8 | 9/10 | 3900 Beech Tree Dr, Orlando | 97% Algebra 1 proficiency, Gifted program, Project Lead The Way, described as "like a private school" |
Middle Schools
| School Name | Grades | Rating | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Middle School | 6-8 | 7/10 | 6450 Dr Phillips Blvd, Orlando | 1,300+ students, improving culture under new leadership, gifted program |
| Chain of Lakes Middle School | 4-8 | 4/10 | 8700 Conroy Windermere Rd, Orlando | Gifted program, Project Lead The Way STEM |
High Schools
| School Name | Grades | Rating | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Phillips High School | 9-12 | 4/10 | 6500 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando | 3,000+ students, 95% graduation rate, Visual & Performing Arts magnet, Center for International Studies magnet, 61% AP participation, dual enrollment with Valencia College |
| Olympia High School | 9-12 | 5/10 | 4301 S Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando | 2,900+ students, 91% graduation rate, JROTC, APEX Academy, 60% AP participation, dual enrollment with Valencia College |
"Bay Meadows Elementary's STEAM Career Academy and Windy Ridge K-8's outstanding Algebra 1 scores demonstrate the caliber of foundational education available in Dr. Phillips — schools that set students up for success through high school and beyond."Back to Top
Private Schools Near Dr. Phillips
In addition to excellent public schools, Dr. Phillips residents have access to several outstanding private and independent schools. For a comprehensive directory, visit our Private Schools in Orlando guide.
Private & Independent Schools
| School Name | Type | Grades | Location | Focus/Affiliation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windermere Preparatory School | Private | PK3-12 | Near Windermere | IB Diploma Programme (only in Central FL), Niche #1 private K-12 in Orlando, 48-acre campus, boarding available, partnerships with MIT and Juilliard. Tuition from ~$29,950/year. |
| The First Academy | Private | PK-12 | 2667 Bruton Blvd, Orlando | Niche A+, Christ-centered college prep, 100% college acceptance, 32 sports, AP & dual enrollment. Tuition ~$26,800/year. Florida scholarships accepted (FES-EO, FTC). |
| Lake Highland Preparatory School | Private | PK-12 | Orlando (15 minutes) | Highly rated independent college prep, strong athletics, comprehensive arts programs |
| Bishop Moore Catholic High School | Private | 9-12 | Orlando (15 minutes) | Catholic college prep, strong athletics and faith-based community |
| Orlando Jewish Day School | Private | PK-8 | Dr. Phillips area | Blends academics with Jewish education, close to Dr. Phillips neighborhoods |
| Foundation Academy | Private | PK-12 | Winter Garden (20 min) | Christian college prep, Lakeside campus near Winter Garden |
Montessori Schools
| School Name | Type | Ages/Grades | Location | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enlighten Montessori Academy | Montessori | Ages 2-12 | 8343 Tansy Dr, Orlando (Dr. Phillips) | Montessori-based curriculum, located within Dr. Phillips community |
| Montessori Way | Montessori | Ages 2-6 | Nearby Orlando area | Authentic Montessori programs for toddlers through kindergarten |
People Also Ask
What are the best private schools near Dr. Phillips?
Windermere Preparatory School is the top-rated private school near Dr. Phillips, ranked #1 in Orlando by Niche and offering the only IB Diploma Programme in Central Florida. The First Academy (Niche A+) is a Christ-centered college prep school with 100% college acceptance and 32 sports. Lake Highland Preparatory School is another highly regarded independent option. For more options, see our Private Schools in Orlando guide.
Are there Montessori schools in Dr. Phillips?
Yes, Enlighten Montessori Academy is located directly in the Dr. Phillips community on Tansy Drive, serving children ages 2-12. Montessori Way is also accessible nearby, offering programs for ages 2-6. Several additional Montessori options are available throughout the greater Orlando area.
How much do private schools cost in Dr. Phillips?
Private school tuition near Dr. Phillips varies widely. Windermere Preparatory School's day tuition starts around $29,950 per year (boarding from $78,150). The First Academy tuition is approximately $26,800 per year. Several schools accept Florida scholarship programs including the FES-EO and FTC scholarships, which can significantly reduce costs. Contact individual schools for current tuition details and financial aid options.
Preschool & Early Education in Dr. Phillips
Finding the Right Preschool
Dr. Phillips families have access to various early childhood education options, including:
- Private Preschools: Standalone preschool programs along Dr. Phillips Blvd and Sand Lake Rd corridors
- Childcare Centers with Preschool: Full-day programs combining childcare with structured early learning curricula
- VPK Programs: Florida's free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten available at participating centers
- Montessori Early Education: Enlighten Montessori Academy offers programs for children as young as 2
- Religious Preschools: Church-based programs available through local congregations
Preschools & Pre-K Programs
| Preschool Name | Type | Ages | Location | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enlighten Montessori Academy | Preschool | Ages 2-5 | 8343 Tansy Dr, Dr. Phillips | Montessori curriculum, full-day programs |
| Chai Orlando Preschool | Preschool | Ages 2-5 | Dr. Phillips area | Jewish community preschool, VPK available |
| Bay Meadows Elementary Pre-K | Public Pre-K | Age 4 (VPK) | 9150 S Apopka Vineland Rd | VPK through OCPS, feeds into top-rated Bay Meadows Elementary |
| Dr. Phillips Elementary Pre-K | Public Pre-K | Age 4 (VPK) | 6909 Dr Phillips Blvd | VPK through OCPS, gifted program pathways |
Florida VPK Program: Florida's Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program provides free early education for 4-year-olds. Many preschools and childcare centers in Dr. Phillips participate in VPK, and several OCPS elementary schools offer on-site VPK classes. Learn more at vpk.fldoe.org.
More information: Orlando for Families
Back to TopColleges & Universities Near Dr. Phillips
The proximity to quality higher education institutions makes Dr. Phillips attractive to families planning for their children's future. Central Florida is home to major institutions including University of Central Florida (UCF), Valencia College, Rollins College, and Full Sail University. Dr. Phillips High School and Olympia High School both offer dual enrollment programs allowing students to begin earning college credits while in high school.
Colleges & Universities
| Institution Name | Type | Distance | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valencia College | Community College | 10-15 minutes | 2-year community college with multiple campuses, dual enrollment partner for OCPS high schools, career and transfer programs |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | University | 30 minutes | 4-year public research university, Big 12 athletics, one of the nation's largest universities by enrollment |
| Rollins College | Liberal Arts | 20 minutes | Private liberal arts college in Winter Park, nationally ranked, small class sizes |
| Full Sail University | Specialty | 25 minutes | Entertainment, media, arts, and technology programs near Winter Park |
| Seminole State College | State College | 30 minutes | 2-year and 4-year programs, dual enrollment options, career and technical education |
| Stetson University | University | 45 minutes | Private university in DeLand, FL, strong law and business programs |
Dual Enrollment Opportunities: Many high schools in Orange County offer dual enrollment programs, allowing students to earn college credits while still in high school through partnerships with Valencia College and Seminole State College. Both Dr. Phillips High School and Olympia High School participate in these programs.
After-School & Enrichment Programs
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Phillips offers numerous opportunities for children to explore their interests and develop new skills. The community's central location and strong commercial corridors along Sand Lake Road and Dr. Phillips Boulevard provide easy access to tutoring centers, sports leagues, and enrichment programs.
Academic Enrichment & Tutoring
| Program Name | Type | Location | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kumon Math & Reading Centers | Tutoring | Dr. Phillips area locations | Math, reading, after-school supplemental education |
| Mathnasium | Tutoring | Nearby Dr. Phillips | Math tutoring for all levels, test prep, homework help |
| Sylvan Learning | Tutoring | Orlando area | Reading, math, writing, homework help, SAT/ACT prep |
Arts & Enrichment
Additional enrichment opportunities include:
- Music Lessons: Private instruction and music schools along the Dr. Phillips corridor, including the Orlando Ballet School South Campus at The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips
- Art Classes: Art studios and creative programs for children of all ages
- STEM Programs: Robotics, coding camps, and engineering classes available through community organizations and private providers
- Sports & Athletics: See our Sports & Athletics in Dr. Phillips guide. Also visit Orlando Sports for regional options.
For arts and cultural programs, visit Arts & Culture in Dr. Phillips. See also Orlando Arts and Culture.
School Choice & Enrollment Information
School Zoning
Public school assignments are based on residential address. Use the Orange County school zoning tool to verify which schools serve your address. When browsing Dr. Phillips homes for sale, always verify the school zone — different neighborhoods may be zoned for different schools.
School Choice Programs
Orange County offers school choice options including magnet programs (Bay Meadows STEAM Academy, Dr. Phillips High VPA and CIS), charter schools, and controlled open enrollment. Magnet applications typically open in October through mid-December.
Enrollment Process
New student enrollment requires proof of residency, birth certificate, immunization records, and previous school records. Visit the Orange County enrollment page at ocps.net for complete requirements.
School Tours
Most Dr. Phillips area schools offer tours by appointment. Contact schools directly to schedule visits and meet with administrators before making your decision.
Helpful guide: Moving to Orlando Complete Guide
Back to TopSchools in Nearby Communities
Families in Dr. Phillips also have access to schools in nearby communities. Explore school options in surrounding areas:
Explore homes in nearby communities: Windermere, Metro West, Horizon West, and Gotha.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schools in Dr. Phillips
What school district serves Dr. Phillips?
Dr. Phillips is served by Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the 8th largest school district in the United States with approximately 208,000 students across 214 schools. OCPS earned an A district grade from the Florida Department of Education in 2025.
Are the schools good in Dr. Phillips?
Yes, Dr. Phillips has several highly rated schools. Bay Meadows Elementary and Palm Lake Elementary both earn 9/10 on GreatSchools, and Windy Ridge K-8 achieves an outstanding 97% Algebra 1 proficiency rate. Both high schools maintain graduation rates above 90%. Many families choose Dr. Phillips homes for sale specifically because of the excellent school options. See our Best School Districts in Central Florida guide for regional rankings.
What are the best schools in Dr. Phillips?
The top-rated schools serving Dr. Phillips include Bay Meadows Elementary (9/10, STEAM magnet), Windy Ridge K-8 (9/10, 97% Algebra proficiency), Palm Lake Elementary (9/10, gifted program), and Dr. Phillips Elementary (top 10% in Florida). For high school, Dr. Phillips High offers acclaimed Visual & Performing Arts and International Studies magnet programs.
Are there private schools in Dr. Phillips?
Yes, several private schools serve the Dr. Phillips area. Windermere Preparatory School (Niche #1 in Orlando, IB Diploma Programme) is nearby in Windermere. The First Academy (Niche A+, 100% college acceptance) and Orlando Jewish Day School are also accessible. For more options, see our comprehensive Private Schools in Orlando guide.
How do I enroll my child in Dr. Phillips schools?
For public schools, enrollment is based on your residential address. Use the OCPS Find My School tool to determine your zoned school, then visit the school directly with proof of residency, birth certificate, immunization records, and previous school records. For magnet programs like Bay Meadows STEAM Academy or Dr. Phillips High's VPA, apply through the OCPS magnet application process (typically October-December). Visit the Orange County Public Schools website for complete enrollment requirements. Also see our Moving to Orlando Complete Guide.
What colleges are near Dr. Phillips?
Dr. Phillips residents have excellent access to higher education including Valencia College (10-15 minutes, with a nearby West Campus), University of Central Florida (UCF) (30 minutes), Rollins College (20 minutes in Winter Park), and Full Sail University (25 minutes). For homes near these institutions, explore Dr. Phillips homes for sale.
What enrichment programs are available for kids in Dr. Phillips?
Dr. Phillips offers a wide range of enrichment programs including Kumon and Mathnasium tutoring centers, coding and robotics programs, music lessons, and the Orlando Ballet School South Campus at The Marketplace. For youth sports, see our Dr. Phillips Sports & Athletics guide. For arts programs, visit Dr. Phillips Arts & Culture. See also Orlando for Families.
Find Your Home in a Great School District
Ready to move to Dr. Phillips and enjoy excellent educational opportunities? Our team at Florida Neighborhood Realty can help you find the perfect home in the right school zone. Browse Dr. Phillips homes for sale or contact us for personalized assistance.
*Disclaimer: School information is for general reference only. School boundaries, ratings, programs, and assignments can change. School ratings are based on publicly available data from sources like GreatSchools.org and may not reflect current performance. Always verify school assignments with the Orange County Public Schools zoning office before purchasing a home. Inclusion of schools on this page does not guarantee enrollment or specific school assignment. Private school information including tuition should be confirmed directly with each institution. The site owner is not responsible for inaccuracies in school data.
Last Updated: March 01, 2026
David Myers
