SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Opens 2026-2027 Lottery Applications for Grades 5-12

Celebrating 30 years of excellence in public education, SEASIDE SCHOOL™ has officially opened lottery applications for the 2026–2027 school year for students in grades 5–12 at SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ and Seacoast Collegiate High School. The lottery application window opens January 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM CST and closes February 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM CST. The public lottery will be held on February 27, 2026 (time TBD), with families notified of results within three business days, no later than March 4, 2026. Families selected through the lottery will have until 5:00 PM CST on the third business day following notification to accept enrollment. Founded in 1996 as one of Florida’s first charter schools, the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ has spent three decades setting the standard for academic achievement, student support, and future-ready education. Known for its high academic performance, exceptional educators, and innovative learning pathways, Seaside consistently ranks in the Top 2% of Florida public schools, preparing graduates to move confidently into college, careers, and leadership opportunities. “This milestone year reflects more than longevity. It reflects trust, results, and a proven model that works,” said Dr. Tom Miller, Executive Director of the SEASIDE SCHOOL™. “For 30 years, we have focused on knowing our students, challenging them academically, and equipping them for any college or career path they choose.”

Students at the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ learn from exceptional, highly qualified educators who are credentialed, experienced, and deeply invested in student growth. Through small cohorts, daily tutoring, and individualized academic and college planning, students benefit from personalized support within a safe, close-knit community where they are known, supported, and challenged.

Learning extends far beyond the classroom, too. Students participate in leadership programs, athletics, arts, theatre, debate, STEM, service learning, mentorship, and dozens of clubs developing confidence, collaboration skills, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose.

A hallmark of the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ experience is its smarter path to college and the future. Through dual enrollment with Northwest Florida State College, students may earn up to 60 tuition-free college credits, often completing an Associate’s Degree before high school graduation saving families an average of $30,000 in college tuition. Students also graduate with industry certifications, the Florida Seal of Biliteracy, and essential life skills including critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving.

“SEASIDE SCHOOL™ has proven that innovation, accountability, and community partnership can redefine what public education looks like,” said Andy Jordan, SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Board Chair. “As we celebrate 30 years of excellence, we remain focused on stewarding a model that serves students, families, and Walton County for generations to come.”

The school’s impact continues to expand through Seacoast Collegiate High School’s presence at the Northwest Florida State College South Walton Center, offering students access to state-of-the-art facilities, innovation labs, and advanced technology and engineering spaces without leaving Walton County.

“SEASIDE SCHOOL™ stands as a powerful example of what is possible when high expectations, strong leadership, and student-centered design come together,” said A. Russell Hughes, Superintendent of the Walton County School District, the #2 school district in Florida. “For three decades, this school has strengthened our community by preparing students to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to the future of Walton County.” In addition to student enrollment, applications to serve on the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Board of Directors are now open from January 9, 2026 through February 6, 2026. Interviews for board applicants will be held on February 18, 2026, with no exceptions. SEASIDE SCHOOL™ annually invites engaged members of the local community to apply for board service. Board members are selected by the current Board of Directors following a comprehensive application and interview process. Applicants are evaluated based on background, skill sets, knowledge of the School, and demonstrated involvement, including committee participation, meeting attendance, mentorship, volunteerism, and support of events organized by the SEASIDE SCHOOL FOUNDATION™, such as the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K and Tom Glavine’s Field of Dreams Golf Outing. Prospective families for the 2026-2027 school year are invited to attend upcoming informational sessions and school tours to learn more about SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ and Seacoast Collegiate High School. For more information about the SEASIDE SCHOOL™, the lottery application process, board applications, or upcoming information sessions, please visit SeasideSchools.net.

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About THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™. Founded in 1996, THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ is one of Florida’s oldest and most successful public charter schools, serving students in grades 5-12 through SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ and Seacoast Collegiate High School with a mission to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond through a responsive, challenging, and equitable education model tailored to meet the unique needs of adolescents and young adults. Recognized as a top-performing school in Florida, THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ has been an “A” school for 21+ consecutive years, ranking in the top 1% of public schools statewide in math and science. Students at THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ benefit from a tuition-free education valued at over $275,000, complete with up to 60 college credits, robust extracurricular opportunities, and a mission-driven focus on leadership, community service, and personal growth. For more information, visit SeasideSchools.net.

Lottery Enrollment is Now Open for the 2026-2027 School Year