Discover Learning Gate Community School

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 both nature and learning since 1983. Originally founded as “a school where kids get dirty,” Learning Gate has grown into a leader in environmental education while remaining dedicated to academic excellence.

In 2000, Learning Gate became the first environmentally focused charter school in Florida. In 2025, the school proudly secured its second 15-year contract with Hillsborough County Schools, paving the way for a continued legacy of eco-conscious education.

Today, Learning Gate serves over 800 students from kindergarten through 8th grade

across two dedicated campuses:

Hanna Road Campus (Grades K–6): Located on 27 acres of natural Florida landscape, this campus features scenic trails, a student-run organic garden, and award-winning green classrooms.

Lutz Lake Fern Campus (Grades 7–8): Designed to support the transition to high school, this campus offers a focused environment for leadership, innovation, and academic readiness.

At Learning Gate, our motto is “Nature is our Best Teacher.” Using the Environment as an Integrating Context (EIC) model, we empower students to use the natural world as a foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. Our curriculum weaves environmental stewardship into every subject, helping students build meaningful connections to their community and the world around them.

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 Bring Learning Gate to Life

At Learning Gate Community School, education doesn’t stop at the classroom door — it extends into the heart of the community. Our signature events are more than just gatherings; they are dynamic experiences that reflect our core values of sustainability, leadership, and connection. Each one offers a unique opportunity for students, families, and community members to come together, learn, and make a difference.

EcoFest – Tampa’s Official Earth Day Celebration: Hosted by Learning Gate, EcoFest attracts up to 5,000 attendees annually. This vibrant event features hands-on exhibits, green vendors, live entertainment, and interactive activities—all focused on sustainability, environmental education, and community impact.

BioBlitz – Science Comes Alive: A favorite among students and nature lovers, BioBlitz pairs learners with biologists, conservationists, and other experts for a day of discovery. Together, they explore our local ecosystems, identify species, and contribute to real-world biodiversity data.

Help the Heron Donation Drive & Auction Night – Community Generosity in Action: This exciting annual fundraiser offers families a fun and meaningful way to support Learning Gate’s mission. With creative auction items, community partnerships, and a shared sense of purpose, it’s a night of giving that brings lasting impact.

The Amazing Shake – Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: This high-energy competition challenges students to sharpen their communication, confidence, and professionalism through a series of real-world scenarios. From firm handshakes to mock interviews, students gain essential life skills that prepare them to lead in any arena.

Together, these events showcase what makes Learning Gate special: a school that not only educates, but empowers—and a community that grows stronger through every shared experience.