A Parents Guide to Finding Great Florida Schools That Fit Your Family

May 22, 2023 | Read Time: 5 minutes

As summer break begins and thoughts turn to the upcoming school year, parents are eager to secure an excellent education for their kids. However, for those considering a move somewhere new, finding a suitable school in an unfamiliar area presents a new set of challenges. When it comes to finding a great school in Florida, there are several steps parents can take to ensure they make an informed decision. Let’s take a closer look.

Determine Your Child's Educational Needs

Similar to buying a new home, the first crucial step in finding a great new school is determining what factors are “must-haves” for a child’s success in school. Families should take the time to reflect on what they value most in a school and consider their child’s unique requirements. What subjects do they excel in? What subjects could they use extra assistance in? Do they need a more structured or less structured learning environment? Does the child have any specific passions or extracurricular activities they’d love to partake in? Knowing the answers to these questions gives parents a solid framework to guide their search and narrow down the options, ultimately finding the perfect school that aligns with their child’s educational journey.

Reseach Florida's School Districts

Once priorities have been determined, it’s important to find schools that align with family values. Websites like GreatSchools.org and Niche.com are valuable resources for comprehensive ratings, considering factors like test scores and equity for all students. The Florida Department of Education also has a report card system for individual schools and districts, providing each public K-12 school an A through F grade based on test scores, graduation rates, college readiness, and other factors. While these ratings are important, families should remember that schools are more than just numbers. Gathering information about innovative educational programs and on-site resources from school websites, education forums, and online directories will provide a well-rounded perspective for their search.

Consider Nonconventional Education Programs

As curriculum and instruction methods move further into the digital age, it’s no surprise that online schooling and nonconventional programs are becoming more popular for all ages. In St. Lucie County, the Mosaic Digital Academy has become a popular choice for families, offering personalized K-12 virtual education with a full-time free public program. Since 2017, this “A” rated school has been providing 24/7 online curriculum access along with both virtual and live experiences that support the holistic development of students.

For the future professional athlete, St. Lucie County also provides numerous specialized sports programs with top-notch coaching, state-of-the-art facilities and rigorous academic curriculums. TLAP Sports Academy provides elite basketball training for students in grades 6-12 looking to earn college opportunities. L.I.F.E Sports Academy blends academic excellence with comprehensive training in basketball, baseball, soccer, football, and wrestling. Furthermore, Altitude Academies provides world-class instruction in tennis, golf, volleyball, and soccer within the unique setting of Sandpiper Bay Resort. These programs empower students to pursue their athletic dreams while nurturing their overall growth and future success.

Plan Ahead For Private Schools

For those who wish to send their child to a private or charter school, planning is a crucial component. While public schools in Florida often have an open enrollment policy, private or charter schools may have additional application requirements including essays, standardized testing, or other application procedures. Starting this process early ensures that important deadlines are not missed. Don’t be afraid to apply to multiple schools at once, as it increases the chances of admission in case the preferred choice is not available. Admissions processes can vary from school to school, so make sure to learn about the criteria during the research phase to know when and how to apply.

Explore The St. Lucie County School District

Located along Florida’s Treasure Coast, the St. Lucie County School District has one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked programs in Florida, with offerings for all ages and interests. Encompassing 39 schools and educating more than 40,000 students, the educational opportunities are endless. Wylder, a new master-planned community in the heart of St. Lucie County, provides easy access to top-rated education from numerous nearby schools. Wylder children will be zoned for Palm Pointe in Tradition for kindergarten through fifth grade and Lincoln Park Academy for middle and high school. An academic magnet school, Lincoln Park Academy offers high-level educational tracks that can lead to industry certifications in cybersecurity, engineering, and technical design.

Higher Education Opportunities Abound

For those wishing to pursue higher education, St. Lucie County also offers a range of colleges and universities to choose from. Indian River State College is the largest institution on the Treasure Coast, with five campuses providing hands-on career and technical training programs in over 100 STEM-related fields. The Harbour Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce is run by Florida Atlantic University and serves as a hub for immersive marine research opportunities. Additionally, Keiser University has recently established a new campus in Tradition, providing an extensive nursing program, golf course management, education, law, and many other programs.

Original Article published by LiveWylder.com

Seas the Day! How to Spend Your Time Out on the Water in Martin County

March 20, 2023 | Read Time: 3 minutes

boating on the ocean near martin county on the treasure coast

Ask anyone who knows Martin County about its best feature and the answer will undoubtedly include the water! Between the Atlantic Ocean, St. Lucie River, and Lake Okeechobee, Martin County is a natural water wonderland. From casting a line for gamefish on the Indian River Flats at sunrise to trolling off-shore in the Sailfish Capital of the World, living in this South Florida region provides a never-ending array of water oriented diversions. Let’s dive deeper into the adventures that await throughout Martin County.

The Boating Crossroads of Florida

With miles of waterways surrounding Martin County, there are truly no limits to boater’s adventures. Whether heading up to Fort Pierce or down to Jupiter/Tequesta, or hitting the sandbar just inside the St. Lucie Inlet, boaters enjoy days filled with family fun. The Okeechobee Waterway, a protected inland passage across the entire state from Stuart to Fort Myers, is also a great adventure for families. The West End of the Bahamas is just 55 nautical miles away, where authentic island adventures and tropical destinations are waiting to be explored.

An Angler’s Paradise

For the sports fisherman, the offshore Atlantic Ocean waters have the reputation for one of the densest populations of sailfish, aptly earning Stuart the nickname of the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” Fishing tournaments are held regularly, with plenty of prizes for young sportsmen and avid anglers alike. With the Gulf Stream flowing offshore, mahi mahi, wahoo, tuna, marlin and kingfish are among the daily catches. Closer to shore, the St. Lucie Inlet and inland waterways are well-known fishing grounds for snook, snapper, pompano, tarpon, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. To the west, Lake Okeechobee offers fresh water fishing opportunities for big-mouth bass, bluegill, and speckled perch.

Kayak Through Nature’s Beauty

For those who prefer to get their sporting exercises through kayaking and paddleboarding, Martin County has designated two waterways as state paddling trails. The Martin County paddling trails span over 37.7 miles across two river systems – the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River. 23 different public launch or stopover sites allow visitors to access the trail through numerous state parks. The St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is one of the local’s favorite spots to begin, winding through mangrove estuaries and maritime hammocks for a sightseeing adventure.

Parks and Pleasures

There’s no better way to cool off than a day at the water park, and Sailfish Splash has become the destination of choice. Located in Stuart, the water park features two four-story water slides, a lazy river, a zero-entry interactive playground, a competitive swimming pool, and more to provide endless fun for the whole family. A new splash park is also on tap for Martin County’s future at Storie. The community concept’s plan would include splash pads, multiple resort-style swimming pools, and more that would be open to all Martin County residents.

Content courtesy of Storie.

A Local’s Guide to “What’s New” for 2022 in Sarasota, Florida

October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes

Located in the heart of Florida’s renowned Cultural Coast, residents and visitors alike cherish Downtown Sarasota’s vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle. This world-class destination located south of Tampa on Florida’s west coast is well known for its waterfront downtown filled with an exceptional array of cultural arts, unique designer boutique shopping, and a wide variety of Zagat-rated dining venues. As Sarasota’s popularity grows, so do the opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment throughout the region. Here is a local’s guide to the newest hotspots waiting to be discovered.

Best New Sarasota Restaurants

Boasting the most restaurants per capita for a city of its size, Sarasota’s five-star dining venues exceed expectations with tantalizing menus. New restaurants are joining the culinary scene daily. Meliora is a favored choice for New American cuisine, with a Chef’s Counter that allows guests to watch the artisans in the kitchen preparing a memorable meal Kojois an elegant and modern space, where a premium sake collection and a menu that encompasses flavors from Japan, China, Korea, and a dash of Italy have attracted the most discerning diners. The newly reinvented Stiks is perfect for a fast-casual dinner, focused on terrific Laotian, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes. At the end of the night, Vampire Penguin’s provides mounds of soft shaved ice, with flavors ranging from traditional chocolate and vanilla to creative specialties like Tajin and Thai Tea, covered in decadent syrups and sweet toppings for a unique alternative to the usual ice cream dessert.

Best New Arts and Culture Venues

Along with the staple favorites of Ringling Museum, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and the Sarasota Opera House, Sarasota is also home to smaller, more local galleries that create an extraordinary art scene. Streets of Paradise’s new Love, Art, Repeat Gallery invites all genres and levels of creativity through workshops and exhibitions. Located in the vibrant Rosemary District, it’s also an extension of the nonprofit’s mission to end homelessness. The Crossings at Siesta Mall is also home to two exciting new art venues. Arts Advocates, a long-time collector and exhibitor of works by Sarasota creatives, has found a permanent home here where docent-guided tours enlighten visitors on Sarasota’s dynamic arts scene. The mall is also now a temporary theatrical space for the long-running Players Centre for the Performing Arts, a community-led theatre dedicated to delivering quality productions and keeping the community engaged with the arts.

Best New Sarasota Events

Sarasota has also developed a thriving culture scene, with vibrant outdoor concerts and festivals that bring excitement and entertainment to the downtown region. Taking place on the first Friday of every month, Fresh Fridays travels around Sarasota to feature the very best of the city’s diverse music, food, and cultural venues. Each month’s block party will be held in a different section of town, with a new theme, food tastings from area restaurants, live music, and more. The Bay Park, which recently opened along the shores of Sarasota Bay, will also play host to ample events throughout the year. The 57-acre park is set to become a gathering spot for the entire Sarasota community, with fitness classes, live music entertainment, farmer’s markets, kayaking excursions, and much more.

Content Courtesy of One Park.

7 Must-See Historic Sites in Stuart, Florida

| Read Time: 5 minutes

aerial of house of refuge in stuart florida

Located on Florida’s East Coast, the city of Stuart and its surrounding areas are not only rooted in coastal views but also in unique historic sites. First founded in 1870, this charming seaside town is filled with numerous sites that showcase the city’s countless years of growth and community spirit. Take a journey back in time and visit the cultural and historic landmarks that make Stuart a one-of-a-kind destination.

1. The House of Refuge

Image Credit: Martin County Office of Tourism

The House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar is one of ten original houses built along Florida’s east coast to provide shelter for shipwreck survivors. The building is not only the last remaining House of Refuge but is also the oldest structure in Martin County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum displays historical maritime artifacts, a model ship collection, Ais Native American artifacts, shipwreck artifacts, and much more.

2. Georges Valentine

Just 100 yards from the House of Refuge Museum is the shipwreck of Georges Valentine, one of only 12 underwater archaeological preserves within the state of Florida. Visitors can park at the House of Refuge and walk to the rocky outcropping entry point. Thanks to its location just 100 yards offshore, guests can either dive or snorkel through the ship wreckage and take in the abundance of marine life in the area.

3. The Lyric Theatre

exterior of the lyric theatre in downtown stuart

Image Credit: The Lyric Theater

Located on Main Street in Downtown Stuart, the Lyric Theatre is the city’s cherished home to the performing arts. The Theatre was built in 1926 as a silent movie house and has been used in a variety of manners since then. Numerous revitalization projects throughout the years have brought the building back to performance condition, including a 2020 renovation that added a new roof, restored the marquees, upgraded the signage, and more. The stage is now home to numerous shows annually, including comedy acts, musicals, classic movie showings, and educational programs.

4. Captain Henry Sewall's House

exterior of captain henry sewall's house

Image Credit: Martin County Office of Tourism

This historic structure, built in 1889 at the tip of the peninsula that became Sewall’s Point, was once the home of local pioneer and developer Henry E. Sewall. When Captain Sewall became the postmaster, he established the Sewall’s Point post office in his home in 1891. Captain Sewall and his wife Abbie lived in the house until 1910. Historic guided tours of the home are held every first and third Wednesday of the month.

5. The Elliott Museum

Founded in 1960, the Elliott Museum was created to showcase the inventive genius of Sterling Elliott. The museum features installments and exhibits dedicated to inspiring creativity through history, art, and community culture for the people who live in and visit the Treasure Coast. From the most comprehensive assemblage of Model A trucks in the world to one of the largest collections of signed baseball-related items, the museum is filled with something for everyone to enjoy.

6. The Court House Cultural Center

Image Credit: Tom Cloud

Stuart’s Court House Cultural Center and Gallery is host to fine art exhibitions created by local, regional, and internationally renowned artists. Designed in the art deco style and built in 1937 as a federal courthouse, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. In 1989, MartinArts saved the building from demolition, restoring it to its natural beauty and creating the current fine art gallery.

7. The Stuart Heritage Museum

After purchasing the Stuart Feed Store building in 1988, the City of Stuart wanted to create a museum that celebrated and preserved the history of Stuart and its surrounding communities. Today, the Stuart Heritage Museum is home to countless relics and artifacts that define the history of the businesses, agriculture, and community spirit of the City of Stuart and Martin County.

Content Courtesy of Harbour Ridge.

The Ultimate Guide to An Unforgettable Buckhead Experience

September 22, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes

Known for its beauty and affluence, Buckhead is one of Atlanta’s most prestigious neighborhoods. This dynamic suburban town just north of Downtown Atlanta is a trendy and chic destination, with critically acclaimed restaurants, renowned shopping, intriguing art installations, and memorable landmarks all within easy reach. Here’s a closer look at just a few of the locals’ favored destinations.

Shop at One of the Best Shopping Malls in the Southeast

For the fashionista always searching for the latest trends, Lenox Square Mall has an array of stores to choose from. With four stories and more than 250 stores, the mall ranges from exclusive designer boutiques to casual staples, ensuring plentiful options for every member of the family. Five restaurants and an extensive food court make the mall a popular dining and entertainment venue.

Explore Local History at the Atlanta History Center

What once began as a small historical center has grown over the decades to encompass 33 acres of curated Goizueta Gardens, four historic houses, varied programming, and award-winning exhibitions. The Atlanta History Center showcases all of Atlanta’s vast history, from the state’s original Muscogee and Cherokee inhabitants to present-day stories of Atlanta citizens. Visitors can also explore nine distinct gardens with acres of preserved woodlands or discover some of the city’s oldest surviving houses that are on property.

Admire Contemporary Artwork

Buckhead Art & Company is one of Buckhead’s hidden gems, and a premier destination for contemporary artwork. This locally owned art gallery provides a space for local artists to flourish, with a 4,000-square-foot gallery that exhibits proactive pop works, harmonious landscapes, timeless paintings, meticulously crafted designs, and more. All the pieces within the gallery are also for sale, allowing visitors to take home any vibrant artwork that catches their eye.

Discover an Ancient River in a Modern City

For those who cherish spending a day outdoors, the Chattahoochee National Park is a great place for a picnic, bike ride, or a leisurely stroll. Over 48 miles of rivers flow through the park, offering excellent opportunities for a leisurely paddle, canoe, or kayak ride to observe the area’s flora and fauna. Fishing in the Chattahoochee River yields year-round catches of trout, bass, catfish, and other species.

Indulge in Critically Acclaimed Restaurants

Known among gourmands and foodies as a top dining destination, Buckhead has an array of extraordinary restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and eateries. Enjoy innovative and carefully curated farm-to-table menus at Atlas Buckhead or Aria Restaurant. Head to Storico Fresco for fresh pasta dishes, Chai Yo for a high-end take on classic Thai dishes, or another of the many eclectic international cuisine venues. No matter where residents choose to dine, there is a perfect choice for every mood, taste, and occasion.

Read the full article here & learn more about the Buckhead lifestyle.

How to Live Like A Fort Lauderdale Local

September 21, 2022 | Read Time: 5 minutes

When you imagine your perfect day – it’s a pretty good bet that soft sand, blue water, and sunny skies are part of the picture. But with the colorful lifestyle of Fort Lauderdale Beach, it’s no wonder why the world is drawn to this part of the Florida coastline. Although Fort Lauderdale Beach is profoundly known to beach lovers, it’s the one-of-a-kind mix of spectacular natural scenery, vibrant arts and culture, delectable and diverse dining options, world-class boating, and a spirit for life that’s captured the heart of its residents. See why so many are drawn to “live like a local.”

The Boating Capital of the World and The Gateway to the Bahamas

They call it the “Venice of America” – a community built around endless canals that connect to the Intracoastal Waterway, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulfstream waters. Here, boaters from around the world flock for fun on the water, whether close to home, or crossing over to The Bahamas. Head out for world-class fishing and diving offshore or take a water taxi or sunset cruise to numerous dining venues throughout the area. There’s a party-like atmosphere on the waterfront throughout the town, celebrating the water-oriented resort lifestyle. Once a year, the world descends on Fort Lauderdale for the International Boat Show, where thousands of people get a taste of the boating lifestyle.

Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk with boats

Coconuts to Casablanca – Walk, Ride, or Glide to Dining Delights

There are few places in the world where such a diverse array of dining venues is concentrated on the sand. The iconic curved walls and pillars along the Fort Lauderdale shoreline serve as landmark guides for a restaurant row unlike any other. For those fortunate to live nearby, the car never has to leave home. Whether you set out to the north or south, a stroll along the beach brings so many dining venues, you need more days in the month to take them all in.

street view of Casablanca in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury resorts are a great place for visiting family and friends, but they are also home to some of the freshest dining concepts. At the W hotel, Steak 954 or Sobe Vegan provide options for the carnivore or herbivore. Looking for a little international flair, Tinta at the Westin or El Vez at the W are highly rated. And when you’re ready to be transported to Asia, Takato at the Conrad won’t disappoint. The Hilton’s LaMarche outside terrace is a popular choice. Or many hit the Cornucopia Gourmet Market to take home a variety of savory tastes from around the world.

Nearby five-star resorts also provide exceptional fine dining venues. Evelyn’s at the Four Seasons, the Ritz-Carton’s Burlock Coast or The Atlantic Hotel’s WildThyme Oceanside Eatery are all top-rated culinary destinations. Along the beach, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of South Florida. Raise a drink and listen to live music at a variety of places where the names set the tone for the evening. Step out into the Quarterdeck, kick back at Coconuts, or meet up with friends at Casablanca.

Fort Lauderdale Beach – The Epicenter of South Florida

It’s said that Las Olas Boulevard is the melting pot of South Florida. Designer shopping and contemporary art museums are nestled along fun-filled music venues, oyster bars and coffee houses. From morning to midnight, living near Las Olas Boulevard means you’ll never be bored. Catch a water taxi to Pier 66, take a walk over to the Performing Arts Center for a live performance, or be whisked away to a rooftop bar to take in the nightlife overlooking the city skyline.

Fort Lauderdale Las Olas Boulevard Sign

Throughout the year, endless festivals and events are held throughout the region. At the intersection of Las Olas Boulevard and the Atlantic shoreline, a palm-tree lined public park and open-air amphitheater play hosts to a variety of live performances. The Tortuga Music Festival, the Las Olas Arts Festival, and the annual Land, Sea & Sky air show are among some of the most talked about events in the country.

Just a short 10–15-minute drive from Las Olas Boulevard offers even more arts and shopping scenes for the family fashionista. Explore dozens of global luxury retailers at The Galleria Mall or explore Lauderdale-by-the-Sea’s quaint walkable streetscape with fabulous restaurants, nightly live music, and shopping. Head to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts or The Parker Playhouse to watch the latest Broadway musical. Or head to Hard Rock, DRV PNK, and FLA Live stadiums for live music from international celebrities, and where the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers, Inter Miami CF, and the Florida Marlins provide constant action.

Exterior of the Fort Lauderdale International Airport

Direct Flights From Nearly Everywhere

Getting to Fort Lauderdale is exceptionally easy by air. The Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale International Airport is the gateway to Florida and welcomes a high volume of travelers embarking on cruises from Port Everglades. The demand results in an enviable number of direct flights from around the country, all touching down just 10 minutes from Selene. Once you’re in town, getting home from Miami or Fort Lauderdale Airports is a breeze on the Brightline high-speed train, with a station just off Las Olas Boulevard for easy access. The Brightline also brings the best of South Florida within reach, with seamless connection spanning north to Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue and south to Miami’s South Beach for easily accessible day trips.