What is a K-8 school?

Pasco County Schools is excited to offer five K-8 schools for the 2026-2027 school year. These schools provide unique benefits, including a smoother transition between elementary and middle school, increased student confidence, and academic success. K-8 schools focus on building a strong community, with some centered around a magnet theme and innovative structures. Students are empowered to discover their interests and feel safe exploring their talents. Communities benefit from the stability of a nine-year school experience, improved family engagement, and better behavior. If you’re looking for a nurturing environment where your student can thrive academically and emotionally from kindergarten through eighth grade, this is it!

What are Chasco, Paul R. Smith, and Skybrooke K-8s?

Chasco, Paul R. Smith (opening in 2026-27 school year) and Skybrooke are schools with a residential zoned boundary serving grades K-8. This is a fantastic opportunity for the west and central communities. All students who live in the attendance boundary may attend. Only students from outside of the attendance boundary need to apply through the Pasco Pathways School Choice Application. All out of zone students who apply will be sent for the lottery, even if this number exceeds the total number of available seats. Preferences established in the Controlled Open Enrollment Plan will be followed when the number of eligible applicants exceeds the number of seats open. Students residing in the district will be given preference, followed by students outside the district. Applicants are randomized and seats are filled by the number of open opportunities designated during the seat setting process. Students not placed during the lottery process will be placed on a randomized waitlist.

What is Starkey Ranch K-8?

Starkey Ranch K-8 focuses on technical fine arts, computer science, and world languages. Students can engage in arts like musical theatre, dance, and orchestra, work with technology such as 3-D printers and laser cutters and take industry certification exams. The school also offers a comprehensive foreign language program from kindergarten through 8th grade. Students living within the attendance boundary can attend without applying. Those outside the boundary must apply through the Pasco Pathways School Choice Application and will be entered into a lottery if applications exceed available seats.

What is Kirkland Ranch K-8?

Kirkland Ranch K-8 is a dedicated magnet school. It focuses on World Languages and Entrepreneurship as a magnet theme. Students start language acquisition in kindergarten and can earn high school language credits in middle school. The entrepreneurship program helps students develop entrepreneurial skills from a young age, integrating these with core subjects. All students must apply through the Pasco Pathways School Choice Application and will be entered into a lottery if applications exceed available seats.

What are the transportation options available?

To explore transportation and hub stops options for magnet programs and schools, please visit the Transportation Department’s Magnet Transportation webpage.

Prior to applying for school choice, you must have a Parent Portal account set up in our student information system (myStudent). Please visit Enrollment Services for additional information.

 

Schools