Learning Gate
Community School
Nature Is Our Best Teacher
Discover Learning Gate Community School
A Legacy of Environmental Leadership and Academic Excellence.
Nestled in the heart of Lutz, Florida, Learning Gate Community School is a tuition-free, A-rated public environmental charter school that has inspired students to embrace nature and learning since 1983. Originally founded as “a school where kids get dirty,” Learning Gate has evolved into a trailblazer in environmental education while maintaining its focus on academic excellence.
In 2000, Learning Gate became the first environmentally focused charter school in Florida, and in 2025, the school proudly secured its second 15-year contract with Hillsborough County Schools, ensuring a bright future for the next generation of eco-conscious leaders. Today, Learning Gate serves over 800 students from kindergarten to 8th grade across two beautiful campuses:
Hanna Road Campus (K-6th grade): 27 acres of natural trails, a student-run organic garden, and award-winning green classrooms.Lutz Lake Fern Campus (7th-8th grade): A hub of innovation and preparation for high school and beyond.
At Learning Gate, our motto is “Nature is our Best Teacher.” Using the Environment as an Integrating Context (EIC) model, we empower students to explore the world around them as a framework for critical thinking, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. Our curriculum seamlessly integrates environmental stewardship with academic rigor, fostering a meaningful connection between students, their community, and the natural world.
Vision and Mission
Vision:
To be a leader in education and environmental stewardship in Tampa Bay, contributing to a sustainable world.
Mission:
To cultivate students through academic excellence, critical thinking and environmental responsibility, focusing on student success, outdoor education and serving the community.
A Tradition of Excellence and Recognition
Our commitment to innovation and sustainability has earned Learning Gate numerous accolades:
2008: Featured in Southern Living Magazine for pioneering “Open Air Classrooms.”2010: Achieved LEED for Schools Platinum certification—the first public school in the nation to do so—through a $250,000 Lowe’s Charitable Foundation grant.2012: Recognized as a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.2016: EcoFest crowned the Best in Green event by the USGBC.2024: Cognia Accreditation, reinforcing our academic and operational excellence.
Signature Events that Inspire and Engage
Learning Gate hosts signature events that celebrate our values of sustainability and community:
EcoFest: Tampa’s official Earth Day celebration, drawing up to 5,000 attendees with engaging exhibits and activities centered on sustainability.BioBlitz: A unique science day where students work alongside experts to explore and document local wildlife. Help the Heron Donation Drive & Auction Night: Fun and impactful ways for families to support our mission.The Amazing Shake: A dynamic competition that builds students’ leadership, manners, and professional skills, preparing them for success in a global arena.
Our Commitment to Environmental and Academic Excellence
With 22 years as an “A” rated school, Learning Gate continues to set the bar for academic achievement and environmental responsibility. As a Cognia Accredited institution, we ensure that students receive a well-rounded, inspiring education that equips them to be leaders in sustainability and their communities. At Learning Gate Community School, we don’t just teach about the environment—we live it, breathe it, and nurture it every single day. Come and experience the difference where “Nature is our Best Teacher.”
Overview of Learning Gate Community School
Campus and Environment
Learning Gate Community School’s middle school campus is nestled in the heart of historic Downtown Lutz, surrounded by landmarks like the Lutz Library and the iconic train station, with serene views of Lutz Lake. The campus’s outdoor spaces offer rich opportunities for physical education and hands-on science exploration, connecting students to the natural environment around them.
Student Engagement and Leadership
Middle school students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover their potential through specialized courses, talent shows, and activities like the Stock Market Challenge. Leadership opportunities thrive in every corner of campus, from House Challenges and school tours to sports and student-led clubs. Community service is central to the Learning Gate experience, with impactful partnerships with the Lutz Senior Center, Metropolitan Ministries, and Tampa Bay Watch, empowering students to give back to their community.
House System
In 5th grade, students eagerly anticipate their induction into one of five houses, each designed to foster a sense of belonging, teamwork, and leadership. These houses compete in exciting challenges such as lip-sync battles, fitness competitions, and riddle contests, while building a strong community spirit. Each house embodies a unique characteristic and is named after an environmental champion, known as a House Guardian, whose life and work inspire their mission:
Hominall – House of Compassion:Embodying kindness and empathy, Hominall advocates for recycling and environmental awareness, inspired by the compassionate work of Jane Goodall.Sequerra – House of Unity:Representing collaboration and togetherness, Sequerra promotes tree conservation and organizes food drives, drawing inspiration from Suzanne Simard's groundbreaking research on forest ecosystems.Aveon – House of Persistence:Symbolizing determination and resilience, Aveon maintains gardens and teaches about biodiversity, honoring the dedication of Frances Hamerstrom to wildlife conservation.Leopold – House of Stewardship:Embodying responsibility and care for the environment, Leopold builds intergenerational connections and fosters stewardship, inspired by Aldo Leopold's conservation philosophy.Cousteau – House of Curiosity:Representing a thirst for knowledge and exploration, Cousteau leads ocean conservation efforts and coastal cleanups, honoring the adventurous and curious spirit of Jacques Cousteau.
The house system creates smaller, close-knit communities within the school, helping students form meaningful relationships, build confidence, and develop a strong sense of belonging. Together, the houses foster an inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels valued and inspired to make a difference.
Athletics and After-School Clubs
Learning Gate proudly participates in the Tampa Charter Athletic League, offering a variety of boys, girls, and coed sports that promote teamwork, discipline, and school spirit. Enrichment opportunities continue after school with clubs such as Student Council, where elected student leaders plan middle school dances, organize fundraisers, and spearhead legacy projects that leave a lasting impact. These experiences foster civic responsibility, collaboration, and leadership.
National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)The National Junior Honor Society recognizes students who exemplify excellence in academics, leadership, and service. To qualify, members must maintain a 3.5 GPA, complete service hours, and contribute to group projects that reflect their dedication to making a difference within and beyond the school community.
Signature Events
The Amazing Shake:
This dynamic competition equips students with essential skills in etiquette, networking, and professional conduct, preparing them for success in real-world scenarios.
Forest and Ocean Biomes:
These interactive learning spaces immerse students in hands-on environmental education, nurturing a deep connection to nature and inspiring a commitment to sustainability.
K-6th Hanna Campus
16215 Hanna Rd. Lutz, FL 33549
7-8 th Lutz Lake Fern Campus
207 W Lutz Lake Fern, Lutz, FL 33549
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