How to Choose the Best Private Elementary School for Your Child

Choosing the right private elementary school in Clearwater, Fl, for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right school provides a strong academic foundation, a nurturing environment, and Christ-centered values that shape your child’s future. But with so many options, how do you determine the best fit?

A strong foundation in early education shapes not only academic success but also character, values, and social development. At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that education is about more than just academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child in a Christ-centered environment.

Our mission is that all students would come to know, love, and honor the Lord Jesus Christ while achieving measurable academic success. We integrate faith into every aspect of learning, helping students develop strong moral character, integrity, and a love for God. This foundation not only enhances their education but also prepares them for a lifetime of faith and purpose.

Here’s a parent-friendly guide to choosing the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, along with insights into why Lakeside Christian School stands out.

1. Prioritize Small Class Sizes for Individualized Learning

One of the biggest advantages of private education is smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized instruction. 

Why It Matters:

  • Teachers can tailor lessons to each child’s needs.
  • More opportunities for one-on-one interaction with educators.
  • Helps early learners build confidence and strong literacy skills.

If academic support and personalized attention are important to you, look for a school that emphasizes small student-to-teacher ratios—like Lakeside. Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction, ensuring that each child receives the attention they need to thrive.

At Lakeside, our dedicated teachers provide personalized learning experiences, catering to various learning styles and paces. In our kindergarten program, we offer small class sizes with extra ELA support to help early readers build a strong foundation. Our fourth graders are also able access their daily lessons and notes on their google classroom to aid in easy review at home.

2. Academic Excellence Without Standardized Test Stress

Public schools in Florida require students to take the FAST test, a high-stakes standardized assessment. However, at Lakeside Christian School, we do not require FAST testing.

Benefits of a Private School Without FAST Testing:

  • Less stress & pressure for young learners.
  • Teachers can focus on deep learning, not just test prep.
  • More time for interactive, hands-on learning experiences.

Unlike public schools, Lakeside Christian School does not participate in Florida’s FAST standardized testing. Instead, we utilize MAP Growth testing, conducted quarterly, to track student progress throughout the year. MAP testing provides valuable insights into each child’s academic development, allowing teachers to tailor instruction based on individual needs. This approach ensures a well-rounded education without the stress of high-stakes standardized testing.

3. Consider Faith-Based Education and Values

For many families, choosing a Christian private school means giving their child an education that reinforces biblical values and character development.

Why a Christ-Centered Education Matters:

  • Biblical teachings integrated into every subject.
  • A strong emphasis on character, kindness, and integrity.
  • Teachers who serve as spiritual mentors and role models.

A school that aligns with your family’s faith and values is essential. At Lakeside Christian School, faith is integrated into every aspect of learning. Students engage in daily Bible lessons, prayer, and a curriculum designed to develop a biblical worldview. A Christ-centered education not only strengthens a child’s academic growth but also fosters spiritual development, ensuring they grow in wisdom and faith.

At Lakeside, our Christ-centered curriculum ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow in faith, wisdom, and compassion.

4. Look for a Well-Rounded Student Experience

A great elementary education goes beyond academics! The best private schools offer opportunities for extracurricular growth.

Lakeside’s Elementary Programs Include:

Athletics: Soccer, basketball, volleyball & more. Each quarter Kindergarten through fifth grade students have new sports to choose from and participate in. Students get to play against other private elementary schools in the area on Saturday mornings.
Bible: Students have daily Bible class, curriculum with a Biblical worldview, caring Christian teachers, weekly chapel services, and opportunities for special Bible studies. Our third grade girls are currently completing a study on navigating friendships in a godly way.
Fine Arts: daily fine arts classes and opportunities to showcase their work in our school and in the larger Tampa Bay community at the Florida State Fair
Recess and PE: Students have recess and PE classes scheduled into their day. Last year, funds were raised for brand new playground equipment and the school gym was recently refurbished with new flooring.

By choosing a school with a balanced mix of academics, faith, and extracurriculars, you help your child grow into a confident, well-rounded individual.

5. Explore Private School Scholarships & Financial Aid

Many families assume private school is out of reach, but programs like Step Up for Students provide financial assistance for qualifying families.

What is Step Up for Students?
Step Up for Students is a state-funded scholarship program that helps families afford tuition at private schools, including Lakeside Christian School. Available scholarships include:

  • Florida Tax Credit (FTC) Scholarship – Based on income eligibility.
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO) – Expands access to private education.
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Unique Abilities (FES-UA) – For students with special learning needs.

Next Step: Learn more about tuition assistance and see if your family qualifies. Re-Enrollment and new applications for the 2025-26 school year are now being accepted by Step Up. Visit the Step Up for Students website for details.

6. Visit the School and Ask Questions

The best way to determine if a school is the right fit is by visiting in person. Schedule a campus tour at Lakeside Christian School to experience our Christ-centered education firsthand. Meet our teachers, explore our facilities, and see how our approach to faith and learning can benefit your child. Learn more about our Admissions process here.

Final Thoughts: The Best Private Elementary School in Clearwater, FL

Choosing a private elementary school is a big decision, but focusing on small class sizes, academic excellence, Christian values, extracurricular opportunities, and tuition assistance can help you find the best fit for your child.

Lakeside Christian School in Clearwater, FL offers all of these benefits and more. Our school, created as a ministry to our Clearwater community by Lakeside Community Chapel in 1975, exists to bring God glory and to make Him known to our students. We are committed to providing a faith-based, academically strong education that equips students for success. If you’re searching for the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, we invite you to learn more about how Lakeside can support your child’s growth—academically, spiritually, and socially.

Schedule a tour today and discover why so many families choose us for faith-based, high-quality elementary education.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.

Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-239-7808, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.

Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.

To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.