Independent Schools Report Rise in Student Grades and School Sentiment, Florida Sees Enrollment Surge
A recent study by the National Association of Independent Schools found that high school students attending independent schools, such as private and charter institutions, reported an increase in grades and positive feelings towards their schools. In Florida, independent schools have…

Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, October 2, 2026 — A recent study conducted by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) indicates a positive trend among high school students attending independent educational institutions, which include private and charter schools. The study found that these students have reported improvements in their academic grades.
In addition to academic performance, students in independent schools also expressed an increase in positive feelings towards their respective educational environments, according to the NAIS findings.
The trend appears to be reflected in enrollment figures, particularly within the state of Florida. Independent schools across Florida have experienced a notable surge in student enrollment. In the city of Tampa, this growth has been particularly pronounced, with independent schools in the area reporting an average enrollment increase of 12%.
The NAIS study’s findings offer insights into the experiences of students within the independent school sector. The rise in grades and positive school sentiment suggests a potentially favorable educational climate for students in these institutions. The enrollment growth observed in Florida, especially in a key metropolitan area like Tampa, further underscores the increasing demand for such educational options.
Specific details regarding the methodology of the NAIS study, the exact time frame of its findings, or the specific types of independent schools included beyond private and charter institutions were not detailed in the provided summary. Similarly, the precise factors contributing to the increased grades and positive feelings were not specified.
The summary did not provide information on the total number of students surveyed, the duration of the enrollment growth in Florida, or whether similar trends are observed in other regions. Further data would be required to establish broader patterns beyond the scope of this specific study and regional observation.
Story summarized from the original created by By Nakylah Carter, Times staff,By Jeffrey S. Solochek, Times staff on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.