Manatee Schools Hold Steady with 'B' Grade in Statewide Assessment
Manatee County Schools have once again earned a “B” grade in the Florida Department of Education’s annual statewide school assessment for the 2024–25 academic year. The district maintained its standing among Florida’s 31 “B”-rated school districts, narrowly missing an “A” by just a few points.
Out of more than 50 public and charter schools in the county, many showed stable or improved academic performance across key metrics, including English Language Arts (ELA), Math, Science, and Social Studies. High-performing campuses such as Anna Maria Elementary, Robert Willis Elementary, and Braden River Elementary earned top marks, with ELA and Math scores well above the state average.
At the secondary level, schools like Lakewood Ranch High School and Braden River High School posted strong graduation rates and college and career acceleration rates, demonstrating a continued focus on postsecondary readiness.
Despite the overall “B” rating, several campuses face challenges. Title I schools such as Ballard Elementary and Manatee Elementary received “C” grades, reflecting the need for continued investment in early learning and intervention strategies.
Charter schools showed mixed results. Oasis Middle earned a “B,” while others, such as Manatee Charter School, remained in the “C” range, reflecting varied performance within the charter sector.
The report also highlighted successes in STEM education and middle school acceleration, as well as a general increase in testing participation and academic growth among students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
With the state reporting an increase in the percentage of schools earning A and B grades statewide, Manatee County’s results place it solidly in the upper half of Florida school districts.
