School Choice in Pinellas

Can anybody tell me if school choice is still going on in Pinellas county for 2009-2010 school year? My husband called a couple of elemetary schools in Palm Harbor and he was told that even if we buy our house within the zoning for a particular school, it doesn't mean our kid gets to go to that school, it depends on space availability. Is this true? Has anyone had a similar experience recently? If so, we may look to private schools and I'd appreciate any tips on good private schools in the north Tampa/Pinellas area. Thanks!

Parent Answers to "School Choice in Pinellas"

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Thanks so much for the replies. It's hard to plan a move when we don't even know where to start because of the schools. My husband will probably rent a place for a while but the question is where, since the zoning may be completely different by the time school will start. I'd appreciate if you would send a note if anything new happens. I'll keep checking this site and the sites listed above. Thanks again for all the good info.

I have a friend who has children in a private school called Palm Harbor Montesory. She is very pleased with the school. Here is a link to its web site:

www.floridamontessori.com/

PS Charter schools(privately run), fundamental schools and magnet schools(county run but separate application process) are good options. I can't speak for private. You should know that Palm Harbor Elementary is on the chopping block for closure!

HOLD OFF!!! DON'T BUY YET!!!

What your husband was told is true. Last year the Choice program went away and the administration allowed kids to stay at a school even if they were not zoned for it. That takes spots from kids that live in the zone. This year the administration plans to take back those commitments it made forcing 18000 kids to switch schools. In addition. they will be rezoning the whole county. Don't buy your house until they finalize (early next year). Check the pcsb.org website and the sptimes.com for ongoing details. December 9th is first public Board meeting and alot of upset parents will be there.

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