Magnolia Montessori Academy

Magnolia Montessori Academy, located at 815 S Central Ave, Lakeland, FL, is a public charter school serving grades K–8 within the Polk County Public Schools district. The school has a student–teacher ratio of about 12 : 1, considerably better than many local averages. Recent data show around 77% of students are proficient in math and 87% in reading, placing the school well above state norms. The student population is approximately 63.5% White, 23% Hispanic and 5.6% African-American, and only about 6% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a relatively advantaged socio-economic profile. Students who graduate from Magnolia typically go on to high schools like McKeel Academy of Technology, which has produced alumni in collegiate athletics and STEM pathways.

For housing, three-bedroom rentals in the Lakeland area typically list around US $1,800 to US $2,500 per month, making it more affordable compared to many metro-Florida districts. With its strong academic outcomes, low student–teacher ratio and clear K–8 feeder model, Magnolia Montessori Academy offers a compelling option for families seeking a holistic, academically rigorous environment.

In spring 2025, Magnolia Montessori Academy launched a “Maker-Mind Fridays” initiative, where K–8 students collaborate on hands-on projects combining Montessori materials, robotics and design thinking.

1. How does Magnolia Montessori implement the Montessori approach at the elementary/middle level?

A. The school uses mixed-age classrooms, self-paced work cycles, and specially-designed Montessori materials, transitioning students into more independent project-based tasks in grades 6–8.

2. What enrichment opportunities exist beyond core academics?

A. Students can participate in clubs like “Young Engineers,” art studio time, and middle-school level electives in coding and design thinking, offering depth beyond standard curriculum.

3. How do parents stay connected and involved in the school community?

A. Magnolia holds monthly “Parent Workshops” on Montessori philosophy, hosts family-learning nights, and maintains an online portal where parents can monitor progress and communicate with teachers.

4. What support structures are in place for students needing extra help or acceleration?

A. Teachers provide individualized learning plans, enrichment blocks for advanced students and focused support groups for those needing reinforcement, ensuring all learners are supported from K to 8.

5. What should families relocating to the area know about housing and budget-considerations?

A. Three-bedroom rentals in the Lakeland zone near Magnolia Montessori typically range from US $1,800 to US $2,500/month. Families should consider commute time, property condition and whether additional tutoring or enrichment may factor into their budget.