School Choice
1939 SE Federal Highway
Stuart, FL 34994
Phone: (772) 219-1200 Ext. 30248
Email: choice@martinschools.org
Empowering Educational Choices for Every Student
The Martin County School District recognizes that education is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to delivering exceptional academic experiences, fostering a safe and supportive environment, and providing a variety of opportunities tailored to each student’s unique needs. Every school within our district offers high-quality educational programs designed to inspire and prepare students for success.
Through our School Choice program, families have the flexibility to select a school outside of their designated attendance zone—whether it's to access a specialized program, align with a parent's work commute, or better support a student’s individual academic interests. We are proud to offer a seamless process that empowers families to make informed decisions about their child’s education.
School Choice ensures that families can actively participate in shaping their child’s educational journey.
2026-2027 School Choice Options
Coming Soon!
2025-2026 School Choice Options
Fall Open Enrollment (Choice) - Application Window March 1, 2025 - March 31, 2025
Late applications will continually be accepted and processed. Per school board policy, late filed applications for high school will be processed on November 14th for the second semester.
Eligible to any Florida resident.
No annual renewal is needed. If a student's application is approved, they may continue attending the choice school through the highest grade level offered on the campus.
Applications received during March are prioritized, but the choice application will remain open and seats will be offered as they become available.
Families apply via the FOCUS Parent Portal.
Instructions on How to Apply for School Choice
For Families New to the Martin County School District:
Families who are new to the District must first complete the Pre-Registration for Enrollment Form via the FOCUS Parent Portal. This form becomes available immediately after a parent registers for access to the portal.
For instructions on how to:
Register for a FOCUS Parent Portal, click here.
Complete the Pre-Registration for Enrollment Form, click here.
Once the Pre-Registration form is submitted, families may proceed to complete the Fall Enrollment Application 2025, which can be found under the student’s name in the left-hand menu of the portal.
For Current MCSD Students Requesting Out-of-Zone Enrollment:
Current students who wish to attend a school outside of their designated zone are not required to complete the Pre-Registration for Enrollment Form.
Instead, please log into the FOCUS Parent Portal and complete the Fall Enrollment Application 2025, which can be found under the student's name in the left-hand menu of the portal.
Eligibility Criteria
School Choice
In accordance with School Board Policies 5113.02 and 5113.03, parents or guardians may apply for School Choice for students in Pre-K through 12th grade. Priority consideration is given to:
Full-time employees of the Martin County School District
Resident families of Martin County over non-resident families
School Choice is available exclusively for full-time students and not for athletics only. Once approved, students may remain at their selected school through the completion of the highest grade level offered at that school.
Controlled Open Enrollment (COE)
Pursuant to FS 1002.31 and School Board Policy 5121, parents of students from any Florida school district may apply for COE to attend any public or charter school within Martin County that has not reached capacity. Eligibility is limited to students who are not currently suspended or expelled. Martin County School District school capacities are determined using the Florida Inventory of School Houses and those identified with less than 75% capacity are eligible for COE. Martin County residents are given priority access to available seats.
COE is available for full time students and not for athletics only. Approved students may remain at their selected school through the highest grade level offered at that school.
Lottery & Selection Process
If the number of applications exceeds available seats, a random lottery will be conducted in accordance with School Board policy. Applicants not selected will be placed on a waitlist.
Late applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis after all lottery applicants have been considered.
Notification Process
Parents who submit an application via the Parent Portal will receive updates through:
Email notifications from FOCUS
Dashboard alerts within the Parent Portal
Notifications include confirmation of application receipt, waitlist status, and/or seat offers. Parents must accept or decline seat offers within 10 school days of notification.
Transportation
Transportation is not provided for students attending schools through School Choice. Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging transportation.
Revocation
School Choice placements may be revoked for: poor attendance, disciplinary issues, and falsified application information.
If revoked, the student must return to their zoned school. Reapplication for School Choice is not permitted for the remainder of the current school year and the entirety of the following school year.