Marion County Public Schools · Ocala, FL

Forest High School

Home of the Wildcats. A Marion County public high school known for STEM programs, Advanced Placement courses, and competitive athletics on Ocala's southeast side.

Updated Today
Grades 9–12
Marion County Public Schools
STEM Focus

About Forest High School

Forest High School is one of the main public high schools in Marion County, serving students in grades 9 through 12. Known as the Wildcats, Forest has established itself as a cornerstone of education on Ocala's southeast side, with a campus located along Maricamp Road — one of the area's primary corridors.

The school is part of the Marion County Public Schools district and sits alongside other major high schools in the area, including Vanguard, Belleview, West Port, Lake Weir, and North Marion. Together, these schools serve the educational needs of Marion County's growing population.

Note: The school is sometimes misspelled as "Forrest High School" (with two R's). The correct spelling is Forest High School — one R.

Academics

Forest High School offers a range of academic programs designed to prepare students for college and career pathways.

STEM Programs

Forest is recognized for its emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students have access to hands-on STEM coursework, technology labs, and project-based learning that builds real-world problem-solving skills.

Advanced Placement

The school offers multiple AP courses across subjects including sciences, mathematics, English, and social studies. AP coursework gives students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.

Career & Technical Education

Forest provides career and technical education (CTE) pathways that prepare students for skilled trades and professional careers. Programs include industry certifications and hands-on training in various fields.

Athletics

The Forest Wildcats compete in the FHSAA across a wide range of sports. Athletics play a significant role in the school's identity and community culture, with strong rivalries against other Marion County high schools.

Fall & Winter Sports
  • Football
  • Basketball (Boys & Girls)
  • Soccer (Boys & Girls)
  • Wrestling
  • Cross Country
  • Swimming
Spring Sports
  • Baseball
  • Softball
  • Track & Field
  • Tennis
  • Flag Football
  • Weightlifting

Contact the school's athletic department for current schedules, tryout dates, and eligibility requirements.

Campus & Location

Address

5000 SE Maricamp Rd
Ocala, FL 34472

Phone

(352) 671-6210

District

Marion County Public Schools

How to Enroll

Zoned Students

Forest High School is a zoned public school. Families living within the Forest High attendance zone are automatically assigned to the school. Check the Marion County Public Schools website or call (352) 671-6210 for zone verification.

Out-of-Zone Transfers

Students outside the Forest High attendance zone may apply for a transfer through the Marion County Public Schools controlled open enrollment process. Transfer requests are subject to space availability and approval.

Required Documents

Enrollment typically requires proof of residency, immunization records, a birth certificate, and transcripts from the student's previous school. Contact the registrar's office for the complete list of required documents and enrollment timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grades does Forest High School serve?

Forest High School serves students in grades 9 through 12. It is a traditional public high school within the Marion County Public Schools district, located at 5000 SE Maricamp Rd in Ocala, FL 34472.

Is it Forest or Forrest High School?

The correct spelling is Forest High School (one R). It is commonly misspelled as "Forrest High School," but the official name uses the single-R spelling. The school's mascot is the Wildcats.

What STEM programs does Forest High School offer?

Forest High School is known for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. The school offers Advanced Placement courses in STEM subjects, technology-focused electives, and project-based learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in science and engineering fields.

What sports does Forest High School offer?

The Forest Wildcats compete in FHSAA-sanctioned sports including football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, track and field, swimming, wrestling, and more. The school has a strong athletics tradition and competes against other Marion County high schools like Vanguard, Belleview, West Port, Lake Weir, and North Marion.

How do I enroll my child at Forest High School?

Forest High School is a zoned public high school within Marion County Public Schools. Families living within the school's attendance zone are assigned to Forest. For out-of-zone transfers or program-specific admissions, contact the school at (352) 671-6210 or visit the Marion County Public Schools website for current enrollment procedures.

Where is Forest High School located?

Forest High School is located at 5000 SE Maricamp Rd, Ocala, FL 34472. The campus is in the southeast part of Ocala, accessible via Maricamp Road — one of the main corridors through Marion County.