The Florida Department of Education on Monday released a numerical ranking of the state’s 3,078 public and charter schools grouped by elementary, middle, high and combination schools.

Three Gulf Breeze schools received Top 40 rankings, led by Gulf Breeze Middle school at No. 18 among the state’s middle schools.

Gulf Breeze High ranked No. 31 among high schools, and Oriole Beach ranked 40th among the state’s elementary schools.

The rankings, coupled with the district rankings, make it easier for parents and taxpayers to view information about Florida’s education system. The Santa Rosa School District ranked No. 2 statewide behind only No. 1 St. John’s (St. Augustine area).

“Floridians care about education. It is critical that our students have access to world-class schools that will give them a pathway to a successful career,” Gov. Rick Scott said. “Measuring each school’s performance helps gauge our progress toward that goal.”

The numerical ranking is based on each school’s total school grade points, which are calculated based on the following criteria:

Points are derived from the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) scores.

The total score includes the sum of the percent of students:

¦ Enrolled for the full school year who score at certain achievement levels on reading, mathematics, science and writing.

¦ With learning gains in reading and math.

¦ That previously scored in the lowest 25 percent on reading and math who make learning gains.

Additional components for high schools:

¦ Graduation rates.

¦ Student participation and performance in accelerated coursework.

¦ Postsecondary readiness.

“Measuring a school’s ability to boost academic achievement helps ensure that we are providing a high-quality education for our students,” said Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson. “Having the data available in an easy-to-use format allows parents, educators, and business and community leaders to view the information and make decisions about how they can be involved in education decisions in their local communities.”

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For the complete listing of school rankings, visit www.fldoe.org/Ranking/Schools.

Last week the Florida Department of Education published a ranking of all 67 school districts in the state, which can be viewed at www.fldoe.org/SchoolDistrict Ranking/.