Sanders Memorial Elementary School

Sanders Memorial Elementary School in Land O Lakes, FL, is a high-performing public school serving 842 students in grades PK-5 within the Pasco County School District, consistently ranking in the top 10-12% of all elementary schools in Florida.

This school is a true academic standout, earning a 5-star rating and ranking 224th out of 2,240 schools statewide (90th percentile) for the 2025-2026 school year. Its test scores are exceptional across all subjects and grades, often 15-30 percentage points higher than the district average. For example, 3rd graders achieved 91% proficiency in math and 85% in ELA, compared to district averages of 62% and 61%, respectively. Even more impressive, students who attended Sanders Memorial go on to achieve 100% proficiency in 6th-grade math at their middle schools, showing the strong foundation built here. The school also boasts remarkably low chronic absenteeism at 13.5%, less than half the district rate of 29.2%, and a very low rate of economic disadvantage, with only 10.69% of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch.

What makes Sanders Memorial particularly interesting is that its success isn't driven by higher spending—it spends $9,586 per student, less than nearby schools like Bexley Elementary ($10,538) and Lake Myrtle Elementary ($11,337). It also outperforms its closest neighbor, Countryside Montessori Academy (66th percentile), despite Countryside having a lower student-teacher ratio and even fewer economically disadvantaged students. While Sanders Memorial has seen a slight dip from its historic peak in 2017-2019 (when it ranked in the 95th percentile), it remains the highest-ranked school in its area, outpacing other strong local schools like Oakstead Elementary and Pine View Elementary (both 79th percentile). This combination of elite academics, strong attendance, and efficient use of resources makes Sanders Memorial a top choice for families in Land O Lakes.