
Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Sarasota School of Arts & Sciences (SSA+S) is a tuition-free, multicultural, public charter middle school located in downtown Sarasota. It serves approximately 750 students in grades 6 through 8 with an average class size of 20:1.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school employs a holistic, interdisciplinary, and thematic methodology that focuses on the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains. It emphasizes experiential learning, community partnerships, and a balance between traditional and innovative teaching methods to foster both independent thought and group collaboration.
Programmes
The curriculum is based on the Florida Sunshine State Standards and includes specialized academies: the Cambridge AICE Academy for college preparatory studies, a Visual Arts Academy for digital and portfolio development, a STEM Academy with CTE and engineering pathways, and a Performing Arts Academy covering dance, music, and theatre. Students participate in service learning and are exposed to real-world career paths through partnerships with outside industries.
Outcomes
The school has earned an "A" grade from the Florida Department of Education. Its academic programs are designed to prepare students for advanced college preparatory pathways at the high school level.
Student support
Learning support
For students who are struggling in mathematics or reading, the school provides daily learning labs in a small-group environment. These labs are designed to support reluctant or struggling learners.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Applications for grades 6 through 8 are accepted annually from August 1st through December 1st. If the number of applications exceeds capacity, a random lottery process is conducted to fill vacancies, with enrollment preferences granted to siblings of current students, children of staff, and children of governing board members. All offers of enrollment are contingent upon a review of student records, including discipline, attendance, and exceptional student education history.
Calendar
The school operates on a daily schedule from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It follows the same academic calendar as the Sarasota County School District.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in the historic Rosemary district of downtown Sarasota, the campus is situated near various cultural centers, including the Selby Public Library, the Asolo Theatre, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The school utilizes these local resources as an extension of its classroom environment.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular clubs, including Esports, photography, a dance team, and a jazz band. Competitive athletic programs are also available, featuring sports such as soccer, volleyball, and pickleball.

Ms. TahmoshCustodian of Public Records
Cambridge Lower Secondary