The Vanguard School is an independent, co-educational, boarding and day school for children who learn differently in grades 6-12.
We have been providing educational excellence to students who learn differently since 1966.
Our purpose is to provide quality education to students and prepare them for post-secondary education and independent living.
Vanguard's program is for learners on an average to above average learning scale.
We provide a structured program that focuses on each student's capabilities in and out of the classroom.
Vanguard offers immense support for students who have been frustrated with their learning in other academic settings.
By helping to eliminate these frustrations, Vanguard successfully provides its students with new opportunities for college placement and various other interests they may not have been able to achieve without the support and direction provided in this program.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked FL School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 102 students
- Yearly Tuition: $50,500
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Average class size: 8 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Vanguard School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Florida for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia, Language-based, ADD, ADHD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalcula, Highly Independent Aspergers Students
Year Founded
1966
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
102 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
14 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
30%
Average Class Size
8 students
Advanced Courses
Biology, English, Physics
Average ACT score
22
(Out of 36)
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Uniform polos and jackets, navy/khaki/grey/black cotton pants or appropriate blue jeans
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$50,500
Tuition Notes
7-day boarding is $50.500; 5-day boarding is $46,500; Day student tuition is $26,000
Summer Program Cost
$6,000
% on Financial Aid
60%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$18,000
Acceptance Rate
85%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Susi Vacek
Endowment Size
$7 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
10 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
10 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Anime Club, Billiards, Community Service Clubs, Gamers' Club, Intramural Chess, Wood Shop Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Cooking Club, Drama and Theater
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Intramural Sports, Tennis
Anime Club, Billiards, Community Service Clubs, Gamers' Club, Intramural Chess, Wood Shop Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Cooking Club, Drama and Theater
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Intramural Sports, Tennis
School Notes
- The Vanguard School provides opportunities for students to participate in sports including basketball, soccer, golf, cross country, tennis and volleyball.Vanguard is sanctioned by Florida High School Athletic Association, and our courses are all NCAA-approved. We have a student center, gymnasium, junior-size Olympic swimming pool and lakefront access. Trips to Disney World, Legoland, Busch Gardens in Tampa, SeaWorld, MGM Studios, UniversalStudios, and many other points of interest in Florida are all a popular part of the Vanguard experience.
- LD types supported: Dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, Language-Based Learning Disabilities
- School accreditation: FCIS
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Vanguard School cost?
The Vanguard School's tuition is approximately $50,500 for private students and $6,000 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Vanguard School?
The acceptance rate of The Vanguard School is 85%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
What sports does The Vanguard School offer?
The Vanguard School offers 10 interscholastic sports: Archery, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Weightlifting.
What is The Vanguard School's ranking?
The Vanguard School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Florida for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for The Vanguard School?
The application deadline for The Vanguard School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 9/28/2020
My son started in 6th grade and the experience has been amazing for him. Small class sizes, teachers care, making friends and many extra curricular activities.
5 9/20/2018
actually I am a grandparent who was anxious about our asperger grandson. I watched public schools just move him along. I watched his self esteem diminish. I feared he would need a basement to spend the rest of his life in...BUT Vanguard turned all of that around. He is thriving and has a future...and he plays tennis!! I'm not kidding! He got a four point the first semester he was there and those grades I trust..HE has friends and his self esteem has returned..and he has a lovely sense of humor!! thank you Vanguard school.....
5 5/17/2016
Our son is just finishing up his first year of high school and has almost straight A's and absolutely loves this school. Huge improvement in academics, independence and Social Skills! Having mentors assigned play a huge part. Of course the Principal and teachers are terrific too! I would highly recommend Vanguard to any parent!
Endorse The Vanguard School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.