Quick Answer
Holmes Beach students attend Anna Maria Elementary (on the island, K-5), then travel to the Bradenton mainland for Martha B. King Middle School and Manatee High School. Call Barrett at (813) 733-7907 with questions about Holmes Beach neighborhoods and school zones.
Holmes Beach FL Schools: Complete 2026 Guide for Parents
Holmes Beach is served by the Manatee County School District, the 8th largest school district in Florida. The district operates more than 65 schools serving approximately 50,000 students. For families buying in Holmes Beach, the school picture has one significant feature: the only on-island school is Anna Maria Elementary. Everything from middle school up requires a trip across the causeway to the mainland.
What Schools Are Zoned for Holmes Beach FL?
| Grade Level | School Name | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| K, 5 | Anna Maria Elementary | 516 Manatee Ave, Holmes Beach 34217 | (941) 782-8600 |
| 6 to 8 | Martha B. King Middle School | 600 75th St W, Bradenton 34209 | (941) 741-3357 |
| 9 to 12 | Manatee High School | 902 33rd St W, Bradenton 34205 | (941) 741-3334 |
Zoning can change. Always verify your specific address assignment at manateeschools.net or by calling the Manatee County School District at (941) 708-8770 before purchasing if school assignment is a factor.
Anna Maria Elementary School
Anna Maria Elementary (AME) is the only public school on Anna Maria Island. It serves all three island cities: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. The school's small enrollment means teachers typically know students individually. The school is walkable or bikeable for many Holmes Beach families living near Manatee Avenue. After-school care is available through the district's extended day program.
Martha B. King Middle School
Martha B. King Middle serves the West Bradenton area including Anna Maria Island students. The school offers core academic programs, electives, and extracurricular activities. Students who live on the island take the district bus or are driven by parents across the Manatee Avenue causeway. Drive time from Holmes Beach to Martha B. King is approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic on the causeway.
Manatee High School
Manatee High School is one of the larger high schools in Manatee County, enrolling approximately 1,900 to 2,200 students. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment through State College of Florida, and CTE (Career and Technical Education) programs. Student-athletes from Holmes Beach participate in Manatee High's athletic programs, with travel to away games requiring the mainland commute.
Manatee County Magnet and School Choice Programs
Manatee County School District operates several magnet programs that Holmes Beach families can apply to:
| Program / School | Grades | Focus | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manatee School for the Arts | 6 to 12 | Arts integration | Lottery; apply at manateeschools.net |
| Lincoln Memorial Academy | K, 8 | Academic enrichment | Lottery; apply at manateeschools.net |
| Various STEM programs | K, 12 | Science/Tech/Engineering/Math | Varies by school |
School Choice and Open Enrollment
Manatee County allows school choice transfers within the district subject to capacity. Applications are typically accepted January through March for the following school year. If you prefer a specific mainland elementary or middle school over the default assignment, apply during the open enrollment window. Acceptance is not guaranteed but many requests are accommodated.
Private School Options Near Holmes Beach FL
Private schools near Holmes Beach require driving to the mainland. Drive time from Holmes Beach to western Bradenton private schools is 25 to 40 minutes. Notable options include:
| School | Grades | Type | Approx. Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Stephen's Episcopal School | Pre-K, 12 | Episcopal; independent | $14,000 to $22,000 |
| Community Christian School | Pre-K, 12 | Faith-based | $8,000 to $12,000 |
| IMG Academy | 6 to 12 | Sports-focused boarding/day | $35,000 to $85,000+ |
| State College of Florida (dual enrollment) | 11 to 12 | College credit | Free for eligible HS students |
Florida School Choice Scholarships
Florida offers Step Up For Students and Family Empowerment Scholarships for income-eligible families and students with special needs. These scholarships can pay toward private school tuition. Apply at stepupforstudents.org. Income eligibility and other criteria apply.
