UF Department of Housing & Residence Education

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Graduate & Family Housing - School Zones

Public Schools

Public schools open to all children and are supported by property tax assessments. Textbooks, some supplies, and bus transportation is provided. School uniforms may need to be purchased.

• After-School Programs are available at most elementary schools to provide supervised child care until the end of the work day for parents.
• Magnet programs are available at some middle and high schools with curricula that require an application for admission
• Charter Schools are organized around a specific theme, such as fine arts.

School Zoning for Village Housing

Private Schools

Costs include tuition, possibly textbooks and other supplies. Some schools have a religious affiliation.

Home schooling

This is where parents or other caregivers take responsibility for educating their children. There is a home-schooling network to share educational resources and experiences. Contact the School Board of Alachua County for more information.

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Children whose first language is not English will be evaluated for placement in an ESOL classroom or a regular classroom.

Questions to ask the zoned school to enroll your child:

• When should I go to school to enroll my child?
• What immunizations are needed for admission into school?
• Is a medical examination required?
• What documents or records should I bring to the school to enroll my child?
• Should I bring my child with me?

Topics to clarify at the time of your enrollment appointment at the school:

• Books and the costs of books and other supplies (if any).
• Bus transportation.
• Starting and ending time each day.
• School health insurance.
• Lunches:
  • Can my child buy lunch at school or bring a lunch from home?
  • Is my child eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch?
• After-school care (if needed).