Vanguard High School
Home of the Knights. A Marion County public high school offering the International Baccalaureate programme, Future Educators Academy, and championship-caliber athletics.
About Vanguard High School
Vanguard High School is one of the most established public high schools in Marion County, serving approximately 1,684 students in grades 9 through 12. Known as the Knights, Vanguard has built a strong reputation across both academics and athletics in the Ocala community.
Located at 7 NW 28th Street in Ocala, the campus sits in a central location accessible to families across the city. The school is part of the Marion County Public Schools district and carries a Niche grade of B- in academics and A- in sports, reflecting its well-rounded identity as both a college-preparatory institution and a competitive athletic program.
With a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 22:1, Vanguard balances the scale of a large high school with specialized academic pathways that give motivated students access to rigorous, college-level coursework.
Academics
Vanguard offers multiple academic pathways designed to prepare students for college and career success.
IB Programme
The International Baccalaureate programme at Vanguard is one of the most demanding college-prep curricula available. Roughly 25% of students participate, completing research projects, extended essays, and exams recognized by universities worldwide.
Future Educators Academy
Vanguard's Future Educators Academy gives students interested in teaching careers a structured pathway with classroom observation, education coursework, and mentoring from current educators in Marion County.
Dual Enrollment
Qualifying students can earn college credits while still in high school through dual enrollment partnerships. Some students complete an Associate of Arts (AA) degree by the time they graduate from Vanguard.
Athletics
The Vanguard Knights carry an A- sports grade from Niche, with strong programs across multiple sports. Athletics are a central part of the school's identity and a major draw for the Ocala community.
Vanguard competes in a wide range of FHSAA-sanctioned sports, including:
- Football
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Track and Field
- Flag Football
Contact the school for a complete list of current sports offerings and tryout schedules.
Home games for football, soccer, and flag football are played at Booster Stadium, located at 2900 NE 36th Avenue, Ocala.
Ticket Prices
- Varsity Football: $10
- Other Events: $7
- Parking: $5
Campus & Location
Address
7 NW 28th Street
Ocala, FL 34475
Phone
(352) 671-4900
Website
vhs.marionschools.netDistrict
Marion County Public Schools
Why Vanguard?
IB Programme Distinction
Vanguard is one of the few public high schools in Marion County offering the full International Baccalaureate programme. This gives students access to a globally recognized curriculum without leaving Ocala — a significant advantage for college admissions and scholarship opportunities.
AA Degree Before Graduation
Through dual enrollment partnerships, motivated students can earn an Associate of Arts degree while still attending Vanguard. This means entering college as a junior — saving families significant tuition costs and accelerating academic careers.
Athletic Tradition
The Knights have a long-standing tradition of competitive athletics in Ocala. With an A- sports rating and dedicated facilities including Booster Stadium, student-athletes have strong opportunities to compete at the FHSAA level across multiple sports.
Community Reputation
Vanguard is deeply embedded in the Ocala community. Generations of local families have attended the school, and its alumni network remains active throughout Marion County. The school's combination of academic rigor and athletic pride makes it a cornerstone of the local education landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades does Vanguard High School serve?
Vanguard 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 7 NW 28th Street in Ocala, FL 34475.
What is the IB program at Vanguard High School?
Vanguard offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum recognized worldwide. Approximately 25% of Vanguard students participate in the IB program, which emphasizes critical thinking, research, and international-mindedness across all subjects.
Does Vanguard High School offer dual enrollment?
Yes. Vanguard offers a dual enrollment pathway that allows qualifying students to earn college credits while still in high school — including the option to complete an Associate of Arts (AA) degree by graduation. Contact the school's guidance office at (352) 671-4900 for eligibility and enrollment details.
Where does Vanguard play home football games?
Vanguard Knights home football and soccer games are played at Booster Stadium, located at 2900 NE 36th Avenue in Ocala. Varsity football tickets are $10, other events are $7, and parking is $5.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio at Vanguard?
Vanguard High School has an approximate student-to-teacher ratio of 22:1, with roughly 1,684 students enrolled. Contact the school directly for the most current staffing and enrollment figures.
How do I enroll my child at Vanguard High School?
Vanguard is a zoned public high school within Marion County Public Schools. Families living within the school's attendance zone are assigned to Vanguard. For out-of-zone transfers or IB program admission, contact the school at (352) 671-4900 or visit vhs.marionschools.net for current enrollment procedures.