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THE BUZZ

TOP 10 Best Private Schools near Destin, FL

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Updated 2026 • A practical parent guide

Choosing a private school on Florida’s Emerald Coast can feel like speed-dating with admissions offices. This roundup gives you a fast, fair overview of private schools within roughly 30 minutes of Destin so you can build a smart tour list, compare programs, and ask sharper questions.

How we picked (quick and transparent)

  • Within a reasonable Destin-area commute (Destin, Niceville, Fort Walton Beach, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach/30A).

  • Strong parent interest and community reputation.

  • Distinguishing strengths such as small class sizes, STEM/AI emphasis, faith tradition, Montessori, or inclusion services.

  • Always confirm current details, grades served, tuition, and openings on each school’s site before you tour.

The Destin-area Top 10 (Best Private Schools Near Destin FL)

1) The Barrett School (Destin) Early School through High School

Future-ready private school with small classes, integrated STEM & age-appropriate AI, and project-based learning across grades. Recently recognized as a top STEM education school in Florida. Useful links: Programs • High School • Tuition & Aid • Tour

2) Calvary Christian Academy & Preschool (Fort Walton Beach)

Faith-based program with a full PK–12 pipeline and college-prep track. Families like the all-in-one community feel and athletics.

3) Destin Christian Academy (Destin)

Neighborhood elementary option with a close-knit community vibe, small classes, and a traditional approach.

4) Emerald Coast Christian School (Fort Walton Beach)

Christian school serving elementary and middle grades with a focus on character formation and academics in small groups.

5) Gateway Academy (Miramar Beach)

Larger faith-based school serving early childhood and K–8 with a strong emphasis on foundational skills and parent partnership.

6) Montessori Learning Center (Fort Walton Beach)

Non-profit Montessori serving ages 3–12. Multi-age classrooms emphasize independence, hands-on learning, and practical life skills.

7) Ohana Institute (Inlet Beach/30A)

Independent, project-based school known for flexible scheduling, real-world learning, and upper-grade opportunities.

8) Rocky Bayou Christian School – Niceville Campus (Niceville)

Established PK–12 system with academics, athletics, and arts under a Christian mission; larger student body and activity set.

9) Saint Mary Catholic School (Fort Walton Beach)

Accredited Catholic K–8 with faith, academics, and service. Popular for its stable community and strong elementary foundation.

10) South Walton Academy (Santa Rosa Beach)

Private inclusion school and therapy center serving learners of all abilities; collaborative model with on-site services.

Grades offered, tuition, and admissions windows change. Always verify on each school’s website before you plan a transfer.

How to compare schools like a pro (15-minute method)

1) Class size & teaching approachAsk for student-teacher ratios by grade and examples of differentiation for advanced and struggling students.

2) STEM, Robotics & AIHow often do students get hands-on lab time? Are there age-appropriate coding/robotics pathways and AI literacy with guardrails?

3) Student work you can seeRequest portfolios, capstones, or exhibition nights. Real artifacts tell you more than brochures.

4) Supports & servicesClarify tutoring, reading/math intervention, counseling, and how 504/IEP plans or accommodation letters are handled in a private setting.

5) Daily logisticsDrive the route at bell times, confirm after-care hours, and check club/practice schedules against your workday.

6) CommunicationAsk for a sample newsletter or portal screenshot. Consistent updates reduce stress.

7) Cost & aidCompare what tuition does and doesn’t include. In Florida, many families use Step Up For Students plus payment plans. See Barrett details: Tuition & Financial Aid

Why many families shortlist The Barrett School

  • Small classes, big support for transfers and new-to-Florida students

  • STEM & AI woven into every grade, not just as electives

  • Project-based learning with demos and public showcases

  • Clear admissions, Step Up acceptance, and 10-month payment plan

    Start here: Inquire / Schedule a Tour • Application Process

Copy-and-save: Tour Day Checklist

  • ☐ Confirm class sizes and how lessons are personalized

  • ☐ Ask how often students use labs/robots/coding tools

  • ☐ Review a student portfolio or live project

  • ☐ Clarify after-care hours and club schedules

  • ☐ Bring report cards/testing; ask about placement

  • ☐ Request a tuition breakdown and aid timeline

  • ☐ Trust your child’s “feel” on campus

 
 
 

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