For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public preschools serving 1,295 students in 33809, FL.
The top-ranked public preschools in 33809, FL are Wendell Watson Elementary School and Edgar L. Padgett Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public preschools in zipcode 33809 have an average math proficiency score of 50% (versus the Florida public pre school average of 56%), and reading proficiency score of 46% (versus the 54% statewide average). Pre schools in 33809, FL have an average ranking of 4/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Florida public pre schools.
Minority enrollment is 57% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Florida public preschool average of 67% (majority Hispanic).
Best 33809, FL Public Preschools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Wendell Watson Elementary School
(Math: 51% | Reading: 50%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
6800 Walt Williams Rd
Lakeland, FL 33809
(863) 853-6060
Lakeland, FL 33809
(863) 853-6060
Gr: PK-5 | 764 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 53%
Rank: #22.
Edgar L. Padgett Elementary School
(Math: 49% | Reading: 40%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
110 Leelon Rd
Lakeland, FL 33809
(863) 853-6044
Lakeland, FL 33809
(863) 853-6044
Gr: PK-5 | 531 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 63%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public preschools in 33809, FL?
The top-ranked public preschools in 33809, FL include Wendell Watson Elementary School and Edgar L. Padgett Elementary School.
How many public preschools are located in 33809?
2 public preschools are located in 33809.
What is the racial composition of students in 33809?
33809 public preschools minority enrollment is 57% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Florida public preschools average of 67% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
When “Free Public School” Still Isn’t Free
Discover the hidden costs of public school in 2026, from supplies and fees to transportation, technology, and extracurricular expenses.
What a District Budget Cut Means for Your Child's School Experience
Learn how district budget cuts can affect class sizes, programs, staffing, transportation, and your child's daily school experience in 2026.
School Closure Risk: What Parents Should Check Before Moving
Learn how parents can assess school closure risk before buying or renting in a district, using enrollment, funding, and boundary data.