Seaside Community Charter School in Jacksonville

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	6/10	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: April 29, 2026

Unfortunately this school has been awful this year. The principal does not communicate. Does not return messages or phone calls. My daughter was sensually touched i was informed that there was an investigation and have messaged asking the status with nothing in return. My daughter was pushed by another parent and there was nothing done except for police at my house to tell me I have no trespassing because of a woman I don't know and then every morning tried to ruin my daughter over crossing the street. It might look good but they can't keep staff. The teachers hate the school the staff had there favorites. I also had another kid come to my house being racist and again police were called on me. It was me problem not a school problem. They are nosey in your business and the education completely sacks neither of my kids are learning anything the 8th grade math teacher has failed every student and they that teacher doesn't return messages either. Complete disaster.

Posted: April 29, 2026

Posted: April 26, 2026

My son started late this school year and he is absolutely loving it. His teacher and school staff are very kind and welcoming.

Posted: April 26, 2026

Posted: April 2, 2026

Not a fan of the afterschool staff. Rude and not accommodating to parents.

Posted: April 2, 2026

Posted: October 28, 2025

I wanted to take the time to give my wholehearted endorsement for this beautiful school to share some of the light as positivity Seaside has brought our family, hoping it can help others find that for their own families. I have children who have attended Seaside for that last few years. From the very start, they have adored school. They love their teachers, and they never want to miss a single day. Seaside has fostered a love of learning in my children that cannot be measured by any test score or school rating/grade.

It is a Waldorf inspired school, something so unique to the Jacksonville area. While it seems impossible to implement Waldorf principles in a public school setting, Seaside does an amazing job getting as close as possible to the impossible balance. Beyond all the standard enrichment most schools offer like PE and music, the kids regularly get time in the garden, yoga classes, 2 art classes a week, handwork (knitting, needle-felt). How do they do that??? The principal, Ms. Hollingsworth, is warm and approachable and really seems to care with her heart about the students and families. Like at any school, some teachers seem stronger than others, but my kids' teachers have all been excellent and seemingly embrace the school values. The academics are integrated and feel more age appropriate than some of the more academically focused schools in the area. Seaside manages to maintain okay test scores while keeping the focus on what is most important: fostering a love of learning, community, the way we treat each other and ourselves.

Increasingly, academic intervention is aggressive and early when a student shows they are falling behind state standards. Communication has lacked in prior years but seems to see improvement each year. This is always something a school can work towards.

The biggest downside of Seaside is there is not always adequate support for students who have extreme behavioral challenges The school does their best, but the integrated and nature-based philosophy of the school attracts a lot of families with students who might otherwise struggle in a more traditional/structured school environment. I wish the school had funding/support from the district to address this specific niche issue that they face due to the unique environment they are offering.

Overall, our family has been so happy at the school, and we are grateful to the teachers and involved families that keep the school thriving.

Posted: June 3, 2025

Seaside may appear appealing on the surface, but serious concerns lie beneath the polished exterior.

The school markets itself as a refreshing alternative to its academically driven neighbors, highlighting a warm environment and Waldorf-inspired principles. Upon visiting, you're greeted by beautifully decorated classrooms and friendly staffbut what happens behind the scenes tells a very different story.

Despite promoting Conscious Discipline, behavioral issues are rampant, particularly in lower grades. Kindergartners have been observed throwing furniture, destroying property, and threatening staff, with little to no meaningful intervention. Accountability is lacking, and when complaints are made, students are often shuffled between classrooms instead of receiving proper support.

Communication is another weak point. Families often experience either radio silence or confrontational responses from administration. Attempts to engage in productive dialogue are frequently met with avoidance; leadership rarely provides documentation in writing and is difficult to reach directly.

Though Seaside claims to be Waldorf-inspired, this often appears to serve as justification for a minimal use of technology. In reality, lower-grade students are entirely prohibited from using laptops outside of state testing. This creates a significant disadvantage, as students receive no preparation or familiarity with the devices they are expected to use for standardized assessments. Ironically, while the tests are not taken seriously by the administration, teachers are still held accountable for student performance.

Teacher working conditions are another serious issue. School hours are long, with educators responsible for students from 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., often without consistent planning time, which is frequently repurposed for other duties. Staff are encouraged to arrive early and stay late to meet expectations, yet compensation remains below that of nearby districts. There is no additional pay for endorsements or certifications, and experience-based raises dont begin until 15 years of service. Teachers may earn additional compensation of $2000 a year through intense Waldorf training. The training is advertized as completely optional but it is noted on evaluations if not completed.

Posted: June 3, 2025

Posted: May 29, 2025

My experience has been deeply frustrating and disappointing. The school claims to follow three golden rules everyone belongs, always be kind and respectful, always be honest and tell the truth but these are nothing more than empty words. In practice, staff and leadership routinely fail to uphold these principles.

The Waldorf-inspired approach showed promise, supported by skilled and dedicated teachers. Unfortunately, as those teachers left, so did any real sense of care or accountability. What remains is a school defined by ineffective, disengaged leadership, a revolving door of uncertified staff, and an environment of instability.

The principal (s) and current assistant principal have consistently shown themselves to be reactive and defensive, prioritizing their power over actual leadership. When concerns are raised, they retaliate with false referrals and excuses instead of taking responsibility. This has created an atmosphere where transparency and trust have no place.

Communication is a constant problem. Staff are rarely aligned, and getting a straight answer is nearly impossible. The head of the consortium sends out sporadic updates after decisions are already made, offering no opportunity for real dialogue or feedback from families. Theres no genuine effort to engage with parents or address concerns.

Equally troubling is the quality of staff. Many are uncertified and unqualified, especially in special education roles. There is no consistency in the support provided, and turnover is continious. For children with IEPs, the lack of proper staff and the schools inability to follow and meet IEP goals is concerning. Promises of support are made but not met.

Academically, the school fails to prepare students for benchmarks or state assessments. They are constantly fundraising and have their hands out, yet no visible improvements are made to the building or student resources. The
PTA has become an exclusive social clique focused on coffee carts for staff than on any meaningful support for students.
There have been multiple incidents of racist and religiously biased remarks within the school community that leadership refuses to address and sweep under the rugbdue to protect their image.
I cannot reccomend due to the lack of effective leadership, communication, and real educational focus on the students
particularly for families with IEP needs or those unwilling to waste their time navigating the schools exclusionary environment.

Posted: May 29, 2025

Posted: April 25, 2025

The teachers are bullies and the vp could care less.

Posted: December 7, 2024

My son attended elementary through middle school here. He started high school this year. He was prepared due to Seaside. Seaside worked with him and followed his IEP. He loved his teachers. Middle School was actually a good experience. Classes are small. There's a reason this school won folio best schools. They give little homework if any and yet my son was better prepared than many of his friends that attended other schools.

Posted: December 7, 2024

Posted: May 15, 2023

Our children have been at Seaside for 5 years. Our children love their school and, as a public school educator, I (and my husband) do as well! Our kids are actually excited to go to school. Both are at or above grade level in both math and reading, on standardized tests (FAST/STAR). But, Seaside does not stress these tests. They are aware that standardized tests can not represent the whole child. We love that students are prepared for the tests but are also taught that their entire worth is not in these tests. Their hearts are valued and their other skills are as well. The resource classes are fabulous (art, music, yoga, etc) as are the many waldorf festivals.
Students learn the lessons congruent in the different subjects. So social studies, science, and language arts will often connect to the same topics (and math too in younger grades). This allows students to dig deeper and really immerse themselves into the topic and creates a better understanding within all subjects. It also creates a deeper interest.
Some teachers are young. But I don't see a problem with this. One of my kid's favorite teachers was a 1st year teacher. She was a wonderful teacher and excited to teach. She brought an energy to class that more experienced teachers sometimes lose. The best part was that she taught my kid for 2 years. That's the waldorf way.
Yes, I will say that there is some teacher turn over. I'm not sure there is much that can be done for this as it's an issue in most places. But they, unlike some other schools, were able to fill most, if not all, teaching positions.
I agree with others who have said communication is an issue. It has gotten better the last year or 2 with ParentSquare. But, in general, Seaside isn't as organized as a traditional school. They aren't as stressed about those things. We had to get used to this as our society has ingrained an "on the go, schedule everything" culture. It is still not my favorite thing but it isn't a deal breaker either.
Last thing I'll add, if you aren't interested in being a vested interest and involved part of your child's education, Seaside may not be the best fit. It takes the Seaside community to make the school successful, not just the paid staff.

Posted: May 15, 2023

Posted: February 4, 2022

This is a horrible school. It has become very woke, teaching young children age inappropriate material while NOT teaching them to read. Kids learn very little academics. Teachers are young and inexperienced. Parents are odd. Don't go there if you want your child to succeed in academics or to love their country. They don't even say the pledge.

Posted: February 4, 2022

Posted: June 3, 2021

We've been at Seaside for three years. I think Seaside is a great school if you're white, wealthy, and your kids are in 3rd grade or less. For the older grades, it really depends on the teacher you are given. Parents in the know will often actively switch their kids out of certain teachers classrooms, which can also lead to a heavy student load on more experienced teachers. We've seen our child get more and more behind each year.

The positives are that the kids are outside everyday and have recess everyday. (6th+ they have outdoor lunch when possible.) The art and music programs are wonderful. The topics covered in main lessons are interesting--and often have a global focus. In general, there is a no homework policy which is good in theory, but may not support all kids' learning needs. The playground is lovely. The festivals are fun and kids look forward to them.

The math program is not effective for the older grades. My child would do 2-3 problems together as a class each day. There was no homework. That was not enough to cement any concepts. This child was still counting on their fingers and did not know their math facts going into middle school. This child also struggled with the ability to write a grammatically correct sentence at that age. I had reached out for help for three years and was told I could pay a teacher for tutoring. I ended up seeking outside tutoring.

Other parents whose kids have left the school have reported that their kids have been held back or been found significantly behind at their new school. It gets to a point where you're afraid to leave the school, because you fear that your kid will be held back one or two grades at a new school. Yes, many are that behind.

Positives--kids are generally happy. It is a nurturing environment. You just need to decide how to balance that with the need for academics and at what point you may need to switch.

This school has an issue with diversity (or lack thereof) as well. There have been efforts to address that, but reality is--it's a privileged white school. They have their diversity campus on the Northside. (Even the school board thought this was separate but not equal.) There are no programs for reduced or free lunch. There is no lunch--you must pack it every day, and it is a peanut-free school. Transportation is up to the parents/guardians.

Posted: June 3, 2021

Posted: October 11, 2020

Homework is relevant to class studies and usually is in the form of projects, with daily reading and household chores regarded as critical daily activities for character development. "Busy-work" does not exist.

Posted: October 11, 2020

Teachers at Seaside are creative in turning lessons into memorable experiences.

Posted: October 11, 2020

The three golden rules at Seaside are: Be Honest, Be kind and respectful, and Everyone Belongs. This coupled with the Waldorf philosophy of experiencing with the Head, Heart, and Hands make for strong character development.

Posted: October 11, 2020

My son has had trouble at other schools due to ADHD, we were recommended to enroll in a Waldorf school. We've been in school for less than 4 weeks and already, we have an IEP in place and have had many meaningful conversations with the ESE teacher. (In comparison, we were in the last 9 weeks of his old school before we had an IEP in place.)

Posted: October 11, 2020

Kids can be mean sometimes, but the experiences that we have had were dealt with appropriately.

Posted: October 11, 2020

Amazing! My children have flourished at Seaside. As a parent, I'm very pleased with the overall level of care and dedication that the faculty and staff have demonstrated. I feel confident that any concerns that I have will be listened to with respect and I appreciate that the administration is incredibly open. I hope that Seaside continues to flourish and I know that it is only possible when it has participation and support from its families and community.

Posted: May 20, 2020

it has programs for students with learning disabilities, however if you get a teacher who doesn't feel like following those guidelines set for in a students plan good luck at ever enforcing them.

Posted: May 20, 2020

This school cares very little about bulling even though it claims everyone belongs. Everyone belongs only if you fit the mold of what they think you should.

Posted: May 20, 2020

My experience at this school for the last 4 years has gone from mediocre to hair pulling. I don't see this school making it more than 6 more years before they either get some effective leadership, actual guidelines are enforced, and some since of organization is accomplished. In short I have serval children that have been at this school for a few years and we will not be sending them back next year. Its finally gotten to be to much work to try and get the school to fufill their part of the education experince. If you have thought about home schooling then give seaside a shot, you will be doing half their job anyways.

Posted: May 20, 2020

Our experience with Seaside was not good, I had two children in different grades and really depends on the teacher they get (which they have the same teachers every year) one child had a normal amount, while the other had a teacher who thought children should be bogged down with nothing but work. The coronavirus didn't change that it only made it worse.

Posted: May 20, 2020

while there are some great teachers at this school, A lot of them have left. there are some good teachers, but gambling that your child will get one...is it really worth it?

Posted: May 20, 2020

This school is full of bullys, and religious groups. Sorry but those are the facts. Anyone who doesn't fit the norm here is ostracized.

Posted: May 20, 2020

Leadership is where Seaside really falls apart. This is the most unorganized school I have ever seen. No one knows whats going on, everything that is planned is last minute, board members have left, this school has never had a decent principle, there is no integrity or accountability here. If you ever disagree with anything you are told to not express your concerns as it is viewed as not being in the "everyone belongs, always happy, never frown" mantra. They have effectively used it as a shield to keep you from offering any effective advice. Even teachers are constantly upset at how disorganized this school is.

Posted: August 6, 2019

Extremely disorganized, previous admin was rude and dismissive.

Posted: August 6, 2019

ESE is understaffed and lack experience with ASD

Posted: August 6, 2019

Some classes have problems with bullying on the playground.

Posted: August 6, 2019

Just ok. Insufficient supports for children with learning disability. Lack of diversity

Posted: August 6, 2019

Posted: June 5, 2018

Homework is given out once a week and due the following week. This gives children time rather than one night, a week to finish.

Posted: June 5, 2018

Wonderful! My son transfered from another A rated school with anger, frustration & constant calls to VP office. Within 2 years my son has doubled his academic performance and is happy and joyful...he is confident in himself! Spending more time outside & with nature than glued to a seat with zero voice level, has also changed his life. I thank God for running into this school and blessing our entire family!

Posted: June 4, 2018

Excellent experience at this school after being at another highly rated public school in the district. My son went from dreading school and crying everyday to loving school and his teacher.

Posted: June 4, 2018

Very positive! Children thrive at this school.

Posted: June 2, 2018

Our overall experience at Seaside has been amazing. Both of our kids wake up in the mornings excited to begin their day at Seaside. Our oldest used to get so upset when he had to go to school, now he loves it; because of Seaside.

Posted: June 2, 2018

Seaside does not overload students with. My son would spend hours each night doing homework after school, that was given by his previous traditional public school. The very little homework given now is always relevant to what is happening in class.

Posted: June 2, 2018

The teachers love and care for each and every student.

Posted: June 2, 2018

Seaside is amazing! The staff is very big on teaching the students that "everyone belongs". We are all different in our own way, that's what makes us all special.

Posted: June 2, 2018

The office staff are all amazing. They all know every child, and make a point to interact with each child.

Posted: June 2, 2018

Seaside has many students with different learning abilities. The teachers embrace everyone, and curve their teaching to help each child.

Posted: June 2, 2018

The staff does not tolerate bullying. Most of the students have been together for many years, everyone knows everyone, there isn't much bullying that goes on anyway.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Excellent!! The learning environment uses a holistic approach. Students are engaged, motivated, and guided by excellent teachers. This school is one of a kind in Duval County-a hidden gem!

Posted: May 31, 2018

It is age appropriate.
Students are not given busy work.

Posted: May 31, 2018

They go above and beyond-all of them!! They are creative, professional, and knowledgeable. They stay up to date with curriculum and learning standards. All classrooms are beautifully decorated and promote a safe
and calming learning environment. Narratives rather than report cards give parents an excellent opportunity to see and understand their child's progress.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Waldorf educations supports mind, body and heart. Creative learning and play are essential. Morning circle begins each day with just three rules: Be kind, Be respectful, and Everyone belongs-that says a lot!

Posted: May 31, 2018

Professional, learning leader, knowledgeable, creates teamwork, supports staff. Encourages professional development for teachers.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Students with many different learning differences attend this school. Each student is monitored, taught, and loved with their needed learning styles. Instruction is differentiated to meet their specific needs. Students as well embrace these learning differences.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Bullying is not tolerated and I have actually never seen an incident at this school related to bullying. Teachers and staff promote "family" values.

Posted: May 31, 2018

They really know their students. They do a lot of professional development to become better at their craft.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Three rules 1.Be Kind. 2.Be Respectful. 3.Everyone belongs. The morning circle is an impressive thing to watch.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Strong leadership with a focus on the children's development academically, emotionally, socially, and physically.

Posted: May 31, 2018

Lots of active learning, music, art, movement. The teachers do not operate from a deficit mindset.

Posted: May 31, 2018

As the only public charter school inspired by principles of Public Waldorf in the Southeast, this school is an innovative choice for parents who want a holistic, hands-on learning experience for their children. The teachers really care.

Posted: May 31, 2018

A weekly folder with age appropriate homework-- and the teacher differentiates to the needs of the student.

Posted: May 29, 2018

Teachers and admin are very pro-active and then "reactive" to each students individual needs. There is not a "one size fits all approach." No student gets left behind,

Posted: May 29, 2018

Principal Papke and Sharon Sanders lead by example. They are compassionate but firm when needed. Incredible team. My Son has been there from the start and there he will remain.

Posted: May 29, 2018

This is the hallmark of Seaside. Their entire approach is geared towards individual attention. They work with Duval county to tailor the program to each students needs. The Duval County school board, teaching and support staff staff and school administration have supported my Son through thick and thin. They truly believe in the Waldorf approach.

Posted: May 29, 2018

They tolerate none of it. They are very fast to address complaints. Inclusion and not exclusion is the word here.

Posted: May 29, 2018

Never too much. Always very focused. Never homework for homework's sake.

Posted: May 29, 2018

The best we've ever had. private or public. Sharon Sanders and Kristen Papke are wonderful. They have a vision and stick to it. They remain undaunted.

Posted: April 14, 2018

They do not follow themselves what they teach.

Posted: April 14, 2018

This school does not match- in action - its philosophy they advertise. Very weak administration. Some very unprofessional behavior by teachers and administrators witnessed by many. In theory it seems wonderful. It is not that in reality. Unfortunately they do not have the childs best interest at heart and the loyalty is very lacking. This school is a shame as it does not practice what it preaches. Many many people have realized this and pulled their child out. Others will realize and other will continue to be fooled. Sad. Please do a lot of research and seek your intuitive gut feeling with this school.
#seasidecharterdoesnotwalkitstalk

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Waterford at Orange Park	Apartment Complex	Orange Park	FL	7.5 mi
2	Bartram Springs	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	8 mi
3	Durbin Crossing	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Saint Johns	FL	8.6 mi
4	Fleming Island Plantation	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Orange Park	FL	9.2 mi
5	Lighthouse at Fleming Island	Apartment Complex	Fleming Island	FL	9.3 mi
6	Highland Glen	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	10.6 mi
7	Spencers Plantation	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Orange Park	FL	10.8 mi
8	Wolf Creek Townhomes	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	10.9 mi
9	The Reserve at Wynnfield Lakes	Apartment Complex	Jacksonville	FL	11.6 mi
10	Oakleaf Plantation	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Orange Park	FL	12.9 mi
11	Waterleaf	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	13 mi
12	Kernan Forest	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	14.2 mi
13	Jacksonville Beaches	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville Beach	FL	14.5 mi
14	Pine Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Middleburg	FL	14.9 mi
15	Reed Island	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Jacksonville	FL	15.2 mi
16	Eagle Landing	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Orange Park	FL	15.5 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Mandarin	Jacksonville	FL	2.1 mi
2	Orange Park	Orange Park	FL	5.8 mi
3	Fleming Island	Orange Park	FL	8.4 mi
4	San Marco	Jacksonville	FL	9.1 mi
5	Avondale	Jacksonville	FL	10.2 mi
6	Riverside	Jacksonville	FL	10.5 mi
7	Sandalwood	Jacksonville	FL	11.6 mi
8	Green Cove Springs	Green Cove Springs	FL	13.5 mi
9	Jacksonville Beaches	Jacksonville Beach	FL	14.5 mi

Base	Distance
Jacksonville NAS	5.6 mi.
Cecil Field	16.7 mi.
Coast Guard Mayport	17.7 mi.
Mayport Naval Station	18.1 mi.
Camp Blanding	26.9 mi.
Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base	42.6 mi.

Seaside Community Charter School

Jacksonville, FL 32257

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Seaside Community Charter School

Jacksonville, FL 32257

School Ratings

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