The Polk County Public School District seventh-largest school district in Florida, and 30th largest nationally. Polk County alone has around 150 school sites serving more than 114,700 students through both traditional k-12 schools and a variety of other programs. Polk County Public Schools has built a reputation for educational excellence. Polk County Public Schools serves students from a wide variety of backgrounds, with a broad spectrum of abilities, who possess unique educational and personal aspirations. PCPS offers educational programs for students of all ages and abilities, including:
- Preschool programs for students as young as 3
- Polk Virtual, a program for students seeking additional opportunities for acceleration or credit recovery
- Innovative magnet/choice programs specializing in STEM and the arts
- Nationally recognized workforce academies that offer students the opportunity to earn industry certifications
- Accelerated programs, including dual enrollment, Advanced Placement, Cambridge International and International Baccalaureate, that prepare students for post-secondary study
- Technical colleges for students who want to enter and advance in the workforce
- Adult schools for older learners aiming to further their education
- Transition, a program for adult students with special needs