Rowlett Elementary Academy has been proudly serving families across Manatee County (and beyond) since 2014 as a free public charter school—after many years as a traditional district elementary school. In 2017, Rowlett Middle Academy opened just minutes away and has since earned an “A” rating from the FLDOE, as well as the distinction of “High Performing Charter School.” Both campuses are consistently recognized by our community, with Rowlett Elementary named “Best Elementary School” and Rowlett Middle named “Best Middle School,” along with ongoing recognition as “Best Charter School (K–8)” in the Bradenton’s Best awards since 2022.
Both locations share one mission: developing creative, confident leaders who excel in the arts, communication, and academics.
Rowlett Elementary Academy (K–5)
- Students participate in multiple sessions of Spanish each week and rotate through a variety of special-area courses, including PE and Art, as well as Chorus/Beginning Band, Dance, Drama, Technology, and Digital Media.
- Students in grades 4-5 may choose to specialize in one of these areas or explore expanded options like Strings or Film. These classes meet three times per week, giving students the chance to build true mastery.
- Rowlett Elementary also offers a dedicated Discovery program for gifted and advanced learners in grades 1-5, focused on technology, critical thinking, and advanced math options.
Rowlett Middle Academy (6–8)
- Middle school students deepen their skills through award-winning arts programs, including Jazz Band, Orchestra, Vocal Ensembles, Theatre, Dance, and more.
- Our Film/Television and Technology programs help students grow as 21st-century thinkers. RMA’s film program has been nationally recognized at the All-American High School Film Festival, and students in the Technology Student Association have earned multiple national awards.
- Students can also earn High School credits in courses such as Spanish I & II, Algebra I, Geometry, Applied Engineering Technology, Physical Science Honors, and English I Honors.
- RMA extracurricular athletics include flag football, basketball, cross country, volleyball, golf, and more, with many teams competing for league championships.
A Commitment to Best Practices & Integrated Arts
Rowlett educators differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners, using the Florida Standards and proven instructional practices. We believe students thrive when the arts support academics, and both campuses regularly host visiting artists through our partnership with the University of South Florida.
Leadership at the Core
Both campuses devote a portion of the school day to the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Young People. Rowlett Elementary is a Covey Legacy School - only the 25th in the world. Rowlett Middle is a designated Lighthouse School. Our students grow into inspiring leaders in their classrooms, across campus, and within the community, building meaningful partnerships with local organizations and radiating the power of simple kindness.
Opportunities Beyond the School Day
Thanks to our Rowlett Family Association and strong community support, we proudly offer free after-school enrichment at the elementary campus, as well as weekly school-day options at the middle school. Students can explore coding, tap dancing, strings, LEGO building, and more.
We are also proud to offer many Leadership opportunities including Student Lighthouse (K-8), Student Council (6-8), Kids Bank (K-5), National Junior Honor Society (6-8), and the Technology Student Association (Grades 5 & 6-8).
DISCOVER Why Rowlett Academy K–8 Is One of Manatee County’s Most Chosen Schools
Choice enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year runs January 12 - February 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.
Campus tours are now open for registration… we invite you to see firsthand what makes our schools exceptional.
To apply, families must attend a tour and/or open house event. Please review campus-specific application requirements below:
- K–5 Elementary Campus: https://rowlettelementaryacademy.org/apply/
- 6–8 Middle Campus: http://rowlettmiddleacademy.org/apply/
