Ballard Elementary, originally built in 1922 and situated on Ware's Creek, was reconstructed in 2002. The global studies magnet school's goal is to "prepare all students for success as responsible and contributing members in a global society," and its facility's architecture includes replicas of the famed Parthenon and Coliseum and depictions of the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben and more. Classical music is played in the hallways, and its auditorium, the last remaining piece of the original structure, serves as a community performance hall and the site of Sunday worship.
Ballard is a Professional Development School and is affiliated with the University of South Florida's College of Education. It also offers before- and after-school care through its Globetrotters program. There is a uniform policy.