Choosing the best elementary school in Miami means considering academics, teacher quality, class size, and how well a school supports each child. With many strong public, charter, and magnet options in Miami-Dade County, parents have plenty to compare. Below are ten schools often praised for their strengths in reading & math proficiency, student support, or enrichment options. Each gives a snapshot of what makes the school stand out — check the link to learn more.
1. Tropical Elementary School
Tropical Elementary School in Miami serves grades PK-5 and features a student-teacher ratio of about 14:1, which helps ensure more personalized attention.
In recent assessments, around 52% of students met or exceeded proficiency in math, and 47% in reading — higher than many schools in its zone, especially considering nearly all students come from minority backgrounds and a large portion are economically disadvantaged. If your priority is solid academic performance with a caring community environment, Tropical is a strong contender. Learn more here.
2. Bent Tree Elementary School
Bent Tree Elementary stands out for its impressive achievement scores in both reading and math, with parents often highlighting the dedicated teaching staff. With a relatively small student body, the school tends to offer a close-knit community atmosphere which can make it easier for students to receive individual support.
Its curricular offerings include enrichment and support programs to ensure that all students, including those who may need extra help, can keep up and thrive. Explore Bent Tree Elementary here.
3. Coral Gables Preparatory Academy (K-8 Center)
Coral Gables Preparatory Academy serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade, combining elementary and middle curricula under one roof. It is known for higher reading and math proficiency, arts integration, and strong parent involvement.
The school balances rigorous academics with enrichment activities—arts, music and STEM—that help develop broader skills in students. Many families choose it because it offers continuity in learning through grade 8. If you value a school that offers both strong core academics and varied programming, this one is worth considering. Check Coral Gables Preparatory here.
4. Mater Academy East Charter
Mater Academy East Charter is praised for its strong academic outcomes and well-structured learning environment. Students typically perform well on standardized tests, especially in core subjects like reading and math, due in part to high expectations and structured curriculum.
The school also offers support services for students who might be falling behind, parent-teacher engagement, and a safe environment. If your priority is getting good academic results along with caring support and structure, this charter school may suit your needs. Learn more here.
5. David Fairchild Elementary School
David Fairchild Elementary is noted for its well-rounded education, focusing not just on core academic subjects but also on creativity, STEM, and social development. Students tend to show strong reading proficiency, and there is often support for extra help where needed.
The school’s environment is considered welcoming, with teachers and staff often praised for communication and caring for students’ individual needs. For families who want both academic growth and personal development, this school often appears among top picks. Explore David Fairchild here.
6. Dante B. Fascell Elementary School
Dante B. Fascell Elementary consistently appears among high-performing schools in the Miami area. Its strength lies in combining academic rigor with a variety of enrichment options—arts, after school programs, and support services.
Classes are generally well managed, helping ensure students stay on task and supported. Many parents appreciate the focus on reading and foundational skills early, which helps build student confidence. If you want a school with strong test outcomes plus enrichment, this one is definitely among the top choices. Learn more here.
7. Scott Lake Elementary School
Scott Lake Elementary is a public school with a reputation for consistent academic solid performance, especially in reading and math among its peers. The teacher-student ratio is favorable, which means students are more likely to get individual attention when needed. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities which help enrich student life beyond academics.
If your priority includes classroom support, consistent performance, and well-rounded school life, Scott Lake is worth considering. Check Scott Lake Elementary here.
8. Spanish Lake Elementary School
Spanish Lake Elementary provides a strong academic foundation, particularly in math proficiency where it scores above many schools in its district. Reading scores are also solid. The school is appreciated for smaller class sizes, supportive teachers, and efforts to engage families and communities in student learning.
Those qualities make it a good option for parents who want a school that balances rigor with support and community involvement. Discover Spanish Lake Elementary here.
9. Sweetwater Elementary School
Sweetwater Elementary is known for steady academic outcomes and a friendly school environment. Students have access to support services and enrichment that helps boost learning, especially in reading and math.
Strong parent feedback often mentions caring teachers and an inclusive culture. The school tends to be a good fit for families who want solid academics without an overly large school size. Explore Sweetwater Elementary here.
10. Dr. Edward L. Whigham Elementary School
Dr. Edward L. Whigham Elementary offers both strong academics and supportive environment. With reading proficiency often on the higher side among local schools, and a commitment to helping students reach grade level in math, the school places emphasis on growth.
Teachers and administrators tend to focus on both performance outcomes and student well-being. Families often praise the school’s communication and engagement with parents. If you’re looking for a school that balances academic expectations with supportive culture, Whigham is a solid pick. Learn more here.
Conclusion
Miami has a wealth of excellent elementary school options that shine for different strengths—some for high test scores, others for great student support, small class sizes, or strong enrichment programs. Whether you prioritize reading & math proficiency, teacher attention, or school culture, the schools above give you strong options to review. Visiting them, checking current performance data, and talking to parents can help you decide which matches your child’s needs best.
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FAQs:
Schools like Bent Tree Elementary, Coral Gables Preparatory Academy, and Mater Academy East often rank among the best due to strong proficiency in math & reading, engaged staff, and enrichment programs.
Across Miami-Dade County, math proficiency is around 60-66% and reading about 58-60% in many schools, depending on grade and district.
Important factors include recent proficiency scores (reading & math), student-teacher ratio, school culture, support for students who need extra help, enrichment/magnet programs, and convenience of location.
