Education in Southwest Florida shapes opportunity for students, families, and our workforce. It builds skills, confidence, and community from Fort Myers to Cape Coral and Bonita Springs. As Emerson wrote, what lies within us matters most. Education helps people develop that potential and put it to work.
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Voters funded new schools, renovations, student seats, and classroom tech in Lee County
- Community programs in Harlem Heights expand access to arts, literacy, and wellness
- FGCU and FSW grow talent, research, culture, and local jobs
- Lifelong learning keeps residents engaged at every age
Education in Southwest Florida starts with local investment
In November 2018, Lee County voters approved a half cent sales tax for school projects. By June 2023, the surtax had raised 440,860,386 dollars, with 20 percent coming from tourism. The district opened three new schools and completed five major renovations. Those projects added 4,500 new student seats. By 2025, the plan projected 56,000 student stations newly built or renovated. The district also distributed 73,000 Chromebooks to students so technology supports daily learning. This investment touched schools across the county and helped modernize classrooms.
Community programs that open doors
The Heights Foundation began in 2000 and serves families in Harlem Heights with education and wellness programs. Its MOSAIC music program offers free instrumental instruction to nearly 50 children. Students gain skills, confidence, and a place to belong.
“MOSAIC and our literacy initiatives offered by The Heights Center work together to support education and personal growth,” says Melissa Barlow, director of arts and community programs at The Heights Center. “The music program builds discipline and creativity, and our literacy work builds core academic skills. Families find a supportive community that helps children grow artistically and academically.”
Higher education that fuels the region
Florida Gulf Coast University was established in 1991 and transformed our higher education landscape. The university supports the economy through students, faculty, daily operations, and capital projects, and it prepares qualified workers for local businesses.
“FGCU contributes to Southwest Florida in tangible and intangible ways,” says Dr. Amir B. Ferreira Neto, assistant professor of economics and director of the Regional Economic Research Institute. “On one hand, it supports our local economy through people and projects and by supplying qualified workers. On the other hand, FGCU teaches and empowers future leaders for a sustainable, resilient, and diverse Southwest Florida.”
Florida SouthWestern State College adds strong pathways with associate and bachelor’s programs. The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall on the Fort Myers campus is a cultural anchor and a gathering place for our community.
More options for Lee County students
Lee County families also find programs at Nova Southeastern University, Keiser University, Rasmussen College, and Southern Technical College. These options serve different career goals and help meet workforce needs in healthcare, business, trades, and technology.
Lifelong learning for every season of life
Learning does not stop after graduation. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at FGCU and the Renaissance Academy at FSW offer noncredit courses, lectures, and workshops. Residents stay curious, meet new people, and keep their minds active.
How to plug in
- Visit a neighborhood school and ask about volunteer needs
- Explore arts and literacy programs at community centers
- Tour FGCU or FSW and meet with program advisors
- Try one class at a lifelong learning program to get started
FAQs About Education in Southwest Florida
Families rank preferred schools within the district’s three primary choice zones. The district runs a lottery that includes preferences such as proximity and siblings. Elementary assignment now follows a proximity plan with smaller attendance areas, and the system is being phased in across grade levels.
Under the proximity plan, elementary students are guaranteed transportation to a school with capacity inside their residential proximity zone. Choosing a school outside your proximity zone can affect bus eligibility.
Open Enrollment typically begins near the end of January. After you validate enrollment, you use the Focus Parent Portal and complete the Choice Application during the window.
Use the district’s School Site Locator to view schools of assignment information for a specific address, then confirm details with the Student Enrollment office. schoolsitelocator.com
Why this matters to us at Worthington
At Worthington Realty, we are neighbors as well as Realtors. We care about the schools and programs that help families thrive. Most homeowners feel overwhelmed when it is time to move. At Worthington Realty, we provide personalized guidance and clear communication so that you feel heard, valued, and confident in your decisions. If school zoning or campus access is part of your plan, we can help you match neighborhoods and timing. Browse homes or visit WorthingtonRealty.com.
