Valrico Academy in Riverview | Military Town Advisor

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Florida Assessment of Student Thinking data from Florida Department of Education, and using 2025 Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking data from Florida Department of Education.
Student Growth	8/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from Florida Department of Education.

Posted: July 2, 2026

From the very first day, my experience with this school has been nothing but positive. The staff truly cares about the students and works hard to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for both children and their families.

Principal Ms. Chaney is an exceptional leader. She is compassionate, approachable, and genuinely invested in the success and well being of every student. Her leadership is evident throughout the entire school.

I also want to recognize a few incredible staff members who consistently went above and beyond. Ms. Keating, Ms. Fulton, and Emilia in the administration office have all been absolutely amazing. They have always been kind, patient, professional, and willing to help whenever needed. Their dedication and genuine care made a lasting impression on my family.

It takes a special group of people to make a school feel like a community, and this team has certainly done that. I am incredibly grateful for everything they have done and highly recommend this school to any family looking for a caring and supportive learning environment.

Posted: July 2, 2026

Posted: January 27, 2026

First year at Valrico Academy has been great. Staff is amazing. My daughters kindergarten teacher Ms Gibson is so good with the students and attentive to parents needs. My daughter is thriving and we are happy parents!

Posted: January 27, 2026

Posted: March 26, 2025

Amazing School,have a good curriculum,absolutely an A rating charter school

Posted: March 12, 2025

On average, ordinary school. There is nothing special.

Posted: March 12, 2025

Posted: March 10, 2025

This is our 6th Year in this school and my youngest still have four more years to go. We love this school. We feel our children are getting a high standard of learning here. And if you hear anything bad about carline, all school have a rough start every school year, but our school gets it together and are well organized.

Posted: March 10, 2025

My experience at this school has been exceptional. The faculty and staff are incredibly supportive and always go above and beyond to ensure that every student succeeds. The community is warm and welcoming, fostering a sense of belonging from day one. Students are encouraged to collaborate and help one another, which has created a positive and inclusive atmosphere. In the classroom, the learning environment is dynamic and engaging. Teachers use innovative methods to keep students interested and challenged, while also offering personalized attention to those who need it. Overall, this school provides an outstanding educational experience!

Posted: March 10, 2025

The school offers a rigorous curriculum, balanced for the kids as they strive and improve each grade. The teachers are supportive, and their safety protocols are top notch.

Posted: March 10, 2025

Our first year at Valrico Academy has been fantastic! The teachers are caring, the curriculum is engaging, and my child (2nd grade) has thrived both academically and socially. Communication is great, and the school truly fosters a positive learning environment. Were excited for the years ahead! Highly recommend!

Posted: March 10, 2025

Our experience at Valrico (VLAA) was outstanding! My child attended for 2.5 years, and we were consistently impressed with the rigorous academics and exceptional STEM program. The curriculum challenged my child in the best way, fostering both critical thinking and a love for learning. The schools dedication to academic excellence and innovation truly sets it apart. Highly recommend!

Posted: March 10, 2025

Our family has been enrolled with Valrico Academy since 2018, and we could not have asked for a better educational experience. The current principal has really done a great job revamping the ways that teachers present the curriculum and the differences have been incredible over the past couple of years. The learning environment is suitable for all varieties of learning styles and constant family involvement and PTSO ideas for cultural awareness or parent mentorship have greatly contributed to the enriching experience that I feel my kids have greatly benefitted from. This school comes highly recommended!

Posted: March 10, 2025

My son is enjoying his school, and his learning is very good.

Posted: March 10, 2025

I like the curriculum of the school when compared to public school.

Posted: March 10, 2025

Were so lucky to have our daughter at Valrico lake academy

Posted: March 10, 2025

My nieces and nephews attend this school and they absolutely love it! As a teacher, I love the environment and the support I receive. Best place Ive worked at!

Posted: March 10, 2025

We enjoy the challenging curriculum for our child, it keeps him interested in learning. We really enjoy the focus on stem activities! We also enjoy the events that the school puts on throughout the year, such as movies on the lawn, family game nights, etc.

Posted: March 10, 2025

Awesome curriculum and teaching . My daughter really likes it

Posted: March 10, 2025

Great school, I like it
Good learning for kids

Posted: March 10, 2025

We moved our child halfway through kindergarten to Valrico Academy due to many issues we were having at our local public school. Moving to Valrico Academy is the best decision we made. VA is an amazing school and we are so happy!

Posted: March 10, 2025

I highly recommend this school. Teachers are knowledgeable

Posted: March 10, 2025

Posted: September 19, 2022

This year the school messed up the Cambridge program where EP kids are not taught separately. My kid is complaining that he/she is getting bored in class because what they are teaching in class is something my kid has done more than a year ago.
All EP kids parents have a lot of issue with this years changes. We had no idea about the change till the first day of school and neither did teacher, most of the teachers are still not clear how things will be handled for EP kids.
If we reach out to Ms Golden who is manager for EP program in Valrico Lake Academy she is not available and always have an excuse that she has 4 schools to manage.
If they don't change the school back to the situation where EP program is separate as it was last year we parents are deciding to change the school.
There are a lot of other charter schools that have opened near by.

Posted: March 3, 2021

This is my son's fifth year at Valrico and it has been a wonderful experience. He has enjoyed all of his teachers from kindergarten through now and the curriculum has adequately challenged him. The teachers have all set high expectations and I believe that will help him be successful at any school in the future because he now has high expectations for himself and how he does in school. The teachers have also done a wonderful job communicating about how he is doing and any areas we could help him improve in. I would highly recommend this school because it gives kids a strong educational foundation to build on.

Posted: March 3, 2021

I would disagree with a previous post concerning the administration at this school. They do not expect for teachers to "teach straight from textbook" at all. They only want teachers using "best practices" and looking at student data for making instructional decisions. Ultimately these practices are doing what is best for the educational needs of students. The administration does allow teachers the freedom to evaluate the curriculum and adjust/tailor it to student's needs.

Posted: March 3, 2021

Posted: January 14, 2020

If you were a student or parent, your experience will be good. If you are a staff member, and are not in their administrations clique, good luck. The school does not adhere to best practices and is very petty and childish and retaliatory if you do not teach exactly in a cookie cutter way that they want you to.

Posted: January 14, 2020

The principal and the assistant principal are very biased and ppretty. I was told I had to teach Word for Word from the textbook not best practice at all. I have over 15 years teaching experience and hold two advanced degrees. Once they have it out for you, its only a matter time before they hound you to death.

Posted: January 14, 2020

Posted: August 11, 2019

Very relevant and effective homework assignments. The math and science textbooks are available online, which is handy when the kids forget to bring their textbooks, or when you want some context on what the homework lesson is on.

Posted: August 11, 2019

Most of the teachers are very effective and care about how well the child is doing. Conferences are available, and the teachers are proactive in communicating with the parents.

Posted: August 11, 2019

The principle sets high standards for the teachers, and seems effective in recruiting exceptional teachers. Some of the more popular teachers have departed, however, so it does raise some concerns about how effectively the school can retain those teachers.

Posted: August 11, 2019

Teachers and administrators are constantly watching classroom behavior.

Posted: August 11, 2019

Excellent school, my daughter loved the four years she spent there.

Posted: June 22, 2019

My son has been attending this school since Kindergarten, and he doesn't bring alot of homework home.

Posted: June 22, 2019

I have had open communication with the teachers. Whenever I need to reach my son's teacher for a question or a concern, I receive a response pretty quickly. I never felt I couldn't ask his teacher for a conference to discuss my child's progress.

Posted: June 22, 2019

My child's classmates have all been very close to each other. The school and teachers teach compassion and respect in these children.

Posted: June 22, 2019

I once had an issue at the school that involved the safety of my son, and the school handled it and the principal also reached out to me and help fix the situation so it wouldn't happen again.

Posted: June 22, 2019

They have programs for children who are gifted and need an educational plan.

Posted: June 22, 2019

This would be my third year my child has been attending this school, and I wouldn't switch my child out of this school. It is A rated, it has teachers that are great and communicate effectively, students and classmates who all love and treasure each other, and I have seen my child blossom in his education. The only concern is the traffic and car line, but this school is stationed where there are atleast 5 more schools around, so the traffic will be bad regardless. I wish the school lot was bigger, but you have to decide what is most important in a school, and they top everything that I need for my child to learn.

Posted: May 17, 2019

Not as good as I had expected and currently looking at other educational opportunities/options for my elementary aged students.

Posted: May 17, 2019

Inconsistent. Poor communication. Students required to be too independent at too young of an age as independence should not be based on grade & age but should take into account students' psychological and emotional capabilities as well.

Posted: May 17, 2019

They change teachers too much and without good communication. Too many "new to the profession" teachers and an administrative staff who does not support them is a recipe for disaster.

What is the reason they CANNOT KEEP teachers?
One has to wonder.

Posted: May 17, 2019

When a problem arises they don't try to find a solution, instead parents are told "this is a choice school, if you don't like it here feel free to leave because we have a line of kids waiting to get in."

Posted: May 17, 2019

There is not nearly enough staff to adequately support children with learning differences. There are no VE (Varying Exceptionalities) teachers and kids with IEPs and 504s are left to fend for themselves which causes great disruption for typical kids. PLUS, they don't disperse the kids, instead they group them as High, Middle and Low and put all the low kids together.

Posted: May 17, 2019

Posted: October 18, 2018

There's a huge disconnect between admins, teachers and parents. Teachers are a replaceable commodity. The school has a bad turnover. Most teachers are first and second year. Many experienced teachers left in the last 4 years. Communication with parents is minimal unless the school needs money. And even then you never hear a Thank You or a report on how much money was raised and how it will be spent.

Posted: October 18, 2018

Kids learn intensely all day long so homework is very minimal, most days less than 30 minutes.

Posted: October 18, 2018

Academically this school is great. The school has an excellent Gifted Program. They offer plenty of extracurricular activities most paid by parents.

All this barely makes up for: 1. huge teacher turnover - many experienced teacher leave the school every year and sometimes in the middle of the school year; 2. weak leadership - parents' opinions don't matter; 3. carline is a nightmare - school was built on a small lot with one entry/exit point yet has over 900 students; 3. exclusive parents community - you must spend 24/7 at the school or be close to admins, otherwise they treat you like you're privileged to go to this school; 4. school events are a logistical nightmare - not enough parking for award ceremonies and "bring parents to school" days.

We've been at this school for 5 years and it's just getting worse. I will be looking for another school for middle school (Bell Creek is the same). If academics is all that matters to you, by all means pick this school. But if you want to keep your sanity and have a community school experience, avoid it if you can.

Posted: November 17, 2017

Academics are great, lots of teacher turnover & uncertified teachers. They don't have the space for outdoor recess everyday, administration does not support their teachers, car line is horrendous, I feel like most of the staff is grumpy. Overall I do
not like this school and will
be looking to pull my child out, they grew irresponsibly fast and their only concern is money.

Posted: August 18, 2016

Both my kids have been at Valrico Academy for two years now, one is currently in second and the other in third grade. Teachers are generally very good, with several that are truly dedicated and excellent. Teachers are dedicated, and they encourage parents to use the school website and email to keep tabs on their kids.

We've had no serious issues, and have found the homework and coursework to be challenging, but fair. Be aware that kids attending this school are taught to be high achievers from an early age, and parents are expected to support this expectation. While there is no competition between the students, don't be surprised to see other parents be very involved and concerned with their kids progress.

All in all, this is an excellent school.

Posted: August 18, 2016

Posted: April 5, 2015

It is a wonderful school for academics and I have no complaints about that. The staff are genuine and it reflects on their attitude towards the children. My biggest concern is the complete lack of athletic facilities. It is appalling that a school with 650+ kids has just a basketball court and a little area ( probably 50' by 20') for the kids to run around. That would be the only negative thing I can say....

Posted: March 24, 2015

The new principal (as of 2014-2015 school year) is wonderful. She and the teachers and staff have been nothing short of amazing. The teachers work closely with the students to ensure that kids are leaening in a manner which suits them and they don't teach to the standardized tests. My children are very happy at school and look forward to attending each day. From the front office staff who greets parents with a warm hello to the lunch ladies, custodians and all of the teaching staff, you just can't go wrong with this school.

Posted: February 4, 2015

What a great year my kids are having now that Mrs. Guertin and all of the teachers that left with her are gone! Let that school in Lutz have her and the others. Our school is productive, organized and a warm, inviting place for kids to learn!! Please those of you whovledtcwhen Mrs.G was here, it has changed, please come back!!

Posted: February 2, 2015

New Prinicpal is easy to access. She is always on the line during pick up and dismissal and easy to catch in the office if you need her. Michelle in the office makes the environment very warm and friendly. She cares for every one of those kids who comes through and so many kids come through the front office for one reason or another everytime I am there. They absolutely adore Michelle and she is always there to help them (and the parents). Traffic is much easier now. Pick up and drop off require some patience, but the teachers are working just as hard as the parents every day to make sure it runs smoothly and orderly. Food is not good so pack your lunch. Field trips are great. Sports are great, with Coach Nily and Thomas and so many volunteers to make sure everything runs smoothly. Uniforms fall apart, but everyone in town uses Ibley so nothing new. The success in the classroom is the best part. The teachers for our two years have been very strong. Challenging curriculum and the focus on actively learning the content. The parent contact is another plus.

Posted: January 12, 2015

This is my first year at Valrico Academy and I could not be happier. I have been teaching for quite some time, and this is by far my favorite teaching experience during my 12 year career. It has become a second family to me. The school has a great reputation and now I can see why. The teachers, parents, and students are second to none, and the administration is professional, supportive, and is on hand at all times to help.

Posted: January 10, 2015

The teacher morale at this school is at an all time low. The school has had years of high achievement and community. You can make false statements but does not change the facts that over 21 teacher left the school at the end of the 2013/14 school year. More than a few teachers have left this school year and some are planning on leaving. You can not build a sense of community and excellence with that kind of turn over. It says something about leadership. Sad but true.

Posted: October 24, 2014

We are very happy at Valrico Academy. Thrilled the former principal is gone with all her flaky attitudes. The expectations and new management are refreshing. Thank you!

Posted: July 29, 2014

I called to get information about the school. I never got a call back. I decided to stop by to see if somebody could give information about openings, I was received by a not a very pleasant front desk lady. The only words out if her mouth were we have no space and you may want to apply online. I am glad we had the option of going to another school where the Assistant Vice Principal called me back right away.

Posted: July 2, 2014

The teachers are fantastic and truly care about the students. Also, the curriculum is very hands-on for tactile learners. I really like how the teachers hold each child accountable for his/her work and behavior, and how each child is treated like an individual.

Posted: June 27, 2014

Valrico Lake Academy - My daughter has started at this school from the beginning when it opened its doors at the old location in Bloomingdale in kindergarten. She is now going to fifth grade. My two son's attend as well. Although the school in not perfect no school is. I love the teachers and they are very involved with the students. I like that there is a uniform policy and I feel that my children are safe which is more than I can say about other schools in my area. There is open communication between parents and school staff. My children all enjoy Valrico Lake Academy. Some things do need to be fixed but overall my experience here has been a good one. I made it through the traffic at this school and that was my only negative because of the construction but it has been resolved.

Posted: February 20, 2014

The teachers are wonderful, but it seems like the owners only care about FCATs so they get the county stipend. Since the children take practice test after test, the creativity in teaching and learning is lost. This year we can feel the burnout in the children, families, and teachers. The principal is inconsistent. Rules and policies are not enforced per the handbook. Codes and regulations are followed in the event of an audit not on a daily basis. Show up unannounced and you will see. The dean of students dresses inappropriately for school in miniskirts and 5 inch heels. She seems more concerned with FishHawk appearances than the students. The principal and dean do not interact with the students unless it is for show - especially during executive visits and open houses. Behind the scenes is a mess. Their Miami headquarters need to conduct a true unannounced check and talk to teachers and parents to get things back on track. A new administration is desperately needed or we are going to lose the great teachers and families that made it such a great school for our children.

Posted: February 13, 2014

The teachers are great. They really seem to enjoy their jobs. And they are great at keeping the lines of communication open. I love the edline system, I can see my kids grades at all times. My kids however hate the school lunch. And I have to agree. All the money that you dish out for this school for one thing after another, they could at least have some real food instead of the microwave slop they are serving. And I hate that I have to pay for my kids to be able to wear blue jeans once a month. A bit ridiculous considering their school shirts are $13 each and the logos fall off after a few washes. The principle almost never smiles and doesn't come across as the friendliest lady. And the lady Denise who works the front desk is the most unpleasant person I have ever come across in the school system. She never smiles and she has terrible phone etiquette. You can hear her attitude over the phone. And the rule about hair color and restrictions on certain hair cuts is unfair considering the principle has Hawaiian punch red hair. She should probably lead by example. Great education as long as you are willing to pack your kids lunch and look past the rude people.

Posted: January 2, 2014

My daughter and family truly love Valrico Academy. The education has been superb and challenging. Each grade level has a family feel. The teachers love their jobs and are passionate about educating children. We could not have hoped for a better elementary school experience. Administration is responsive to parent requests in a timely manner. The administration works hard to know the names of the students and greet them. I hope my daughter continues to have experiences in secondary that are similar in nature to her experience at Valrico Academy. It is too bad that a few negative parents comments cast a shadow on a school that has such heart. Keep up the good work Valrico Academy!

Posted: December 3, 2013

We were referred to this school by one of the staff who happens to also be a neighbor. Though we were "satisfied" with our local school, the promise of new buildings, smaller class sizes and extra programming lured us away. After the Winter Break, we've decided to return to our local school. This school and the administration are completely disappointing. Never judge a book by it's cover alone. This has been one of the worst experiences we've had with our daughter, who rarely wants to go to school each day.

Posted: September 25, 2013

With the new Bell Creek Academy - the Middle School which follows the Valrico Lake Advantage Academy - this school really is one to follow closely. It will be especially nice once the High School is built, and then one can visualize the types of training and instruction that was begun at the elementary level.

Posted: September 10, 2013

Love this school!!! My daughter has been there for 3 years and my youngest just started K there. They are wonderful and caring. Both of my kids have 504 plans for health reasons, and they have been a blessing to work with, they have gone above and beyond every step of the way for my kids special needs. Only one small complaint - wish they would offer more parent volunteer opportunities for working families. Most of the volunteer hours are during the work day which makes it hard for working parents to get as involved.

Posted: August 19, 2013

A wonderful school. A private school feel through and through but tuition free. Teachers are great, they act as if they love teaching. Communication with teachers is amazing, email and phone contact is very open.

Posted: August 19, 2013

Love this school. Staff and teachers are great. Very welcoming. I believe anything but a good review is the result of a parent that would have problems anywhere. Parents that give this school a negative review (below) usually dont see themselves as the issue, when in fact that is the case. I have two kids going here, both girls and the teacher and staff have been nothing but amazing, and no, Im not one of those super involved in PTSO parents. I simply volunteer and support my school as much as I can and I also dont expect the teachers to raise my children. I am as much of a help with my kids school work as a parent should be. It takes effort, something parents (below) dont seem to want to give.

Posted: August 15, 2013

I moved my son to Valrico Academy in the 2nd grade, he is now in the 4th grade and I couldn't be happier with our school. The teachers are wonderful and I love that parents are so involved. I have two small children that will definitely attend when they are old enough. I feel the teachers and staff are very caring and want each child to succeed. Everyone seems excited to learn. It is a place my son feels comfortable and I have no worries leaving him there. I encourage all families to check it out if you are looking for a new school.

Posted: July 25, 2013

Unfortunately our experience was not the same for our daughter. We are leaving this school after only one year and returning to Fishhawk Creek. I would not recommend this school unless your desire is to be ignored by administration and a nonexistent nonresponsive Board. I agree there is more that meets the eye at this school, but in a very different kind of way...the border more on the troublesome side. Glad to be leaving.

Posted: May 28, 2013

We LOVE Valrico Academy and are so sad to leave (moving out of state). There is far more than meets the eye. Teachers and staff are energetic and warm. Teachers drive education in a fun and enriching manner. Having left Fishhawk Creek Elementary for Valrico 2 years ago,we have been through the growing pains, and although they continue, the bumps are well worth the ride!

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	FishHawk Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Lithia	FL	3.2 mi
2	Fish Hawk Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Lithia	FL	3.7 mi
3	Fishhawk Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Lithia	FL	3.7 mi
4	Panther Trace	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Riverview	FL	3.9 mi
5	Avelar Creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Riverview	FL	5.2 mi
6	Harbour Isles	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Apollo Beach	FL	11.8 mi
7	The Pavillions	Apartment Complex	Tampa	FL	13.7 mi
8	Hyde Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Tampa	FL	13.9 mi
9	Westchase	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Tampa	FL	24.3 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Fishhawk Ranch /Lithia FL	Lithia	FL	3.5 mi
2	South of Gandy (SOG)	Tampa	FL	14.3 mi
3	South Tampa	Tampa	FL	15 mi

Base	Distance
MacDill AFB	13.3 mi.
Coast Guard Clearwater	26.3 mi.

Valrico Academy

Riverview, FL 33569

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Valrico Academy

Riverview, FL 33569

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