Ava McDonnell 
Presented by the International Education Group at Campbridge, three Florida school districts earned national recognition for helping more students access college-level academics. Broward County Public Schools, St. Lucie Public Schools, and Flagler Schools have been named 2026 U.S. Districts of the Year by Cambridge International Education.
As families and educators increasingly prioritize college and career readiness, programs that offer advanced coursework are becoming a key part of the conversation. These courses go beyond traditional classroom learning, encouraging students to think critically, conduct research, and build real-world skills that translate far beyond high school.
“Students in these districts are showing that when they are given access to challenging, high-quality courses, they don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them,” said Mark Cavone, Regional Director for North America at Cambridge International Education.
Florida has emerged as a leader in this space, with growing participation in Cambridge programs across the state. For students, that often means the opportunity to earn college credit early, explore academic interests in greater depth, and graduate with a stronger sense of confidence about what comes next.
A Closer Look
While all three districts share a commitment to academic rigor, each earned recognition for a slightly different approach to building and growing its programs.
Broward County Public Schools (Large District Winner)
With over 20,000 students, Broward spent 10 years building out a network of advanced academic options. From early exposure in younger grades to specialized programs in high school, students have multiple entry points into more rigorous coursework. The district has also leaned into magnet programs, giving students the chance to tailor their education while earning college credit along the way.
St. Lucie Public Schools (Medium District Winner)
With 10,000-20,000 students, St. Lucie has focused on creating a clear academic pathway for students, making it easier to progress from foundational courses into more advanced studies. The district has encouraged broader participation, helping more students see themselves as capable of succeeding in challenging academic environments.
Flagler Public Schools (Small District Winner)
With less than 10,000 students, Flagler Schools is a strong example of how smaller districts can still deliver big opportunities. With intentional investment in advanced programs, the district has expanded access and encouraged students to take on more rigorous coursework. This leads to more students gaining the skills and confidence they need for college and beyond.
As programs like those offered by Cambridge International Education continue to expand, districts like Broward, St. Lucie, and Flagler are helping set the pace. Their success shows what’s possible when schools invest in both rigor and access, creating environments where more students can thrive.
For Florida families, it’s an encouraging sign that opportunities for advanced learning are growing and that more students are being equipped with the tools they need to succeed long after graduation.
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