Bay County parents, if you’ve been homeschooling or considering it, you might be wondering how to cover the costs of books, curriculum, and all the educational materials that can quickly add up. The good news is Florida has an amazing resource in place for you: the Personalized Education Program (PEP), a financial lifeline specifically designed to help families like yours.
What Exactly is PEP?
The Personalized Education Program is a state-funded scholarship through the broader Step Up for Students initiative. PEP offers an educational savings account that gives homeschool families direct access to funds to cover homeschooling expenses. This can include everything from curriculum and books to specialized courses, tutoring, and more. The scholarships typically range from $7,000 to $10,000 per child, per school year, making it much easier to tailor your child’s education to their needs without breaking the bank.
Who is Eligible for PEP?
The program is open to any K-12 student who is a Florida resident and not currently enrolled in a public or private school. You don’t need to worry about income restrictions, though priority is given to lower-income families and children in foster care. This means many families in Bay County can access these funds with ease. If your child is eligible to attend a Florida public school, they are eligible to apply for PEP!
What Can PEP Funds Be Used For?
PEP provides great flexibility in what you can use the funds for. Here are just a few ways homeschooling parents can take advantage of these resources:
• Curriculum purchases: Choose a curriculum that suits your child’s unique learning style.
• Books and educational materials: Stock up on everything your homeschool journey requires.
• Tutoring services: If your child needs help with advanced subjects, the funds can be applied here.
• Technology needs: Laptops, software, or other devices for learning purposes.
• Testing and evaluations: These costs are covered as part of the requirements of the PEP program.
How to Apply for PEP
Applying for PEP is straightforward and can be done online. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Confirm your child’s eligibility: Make sure your child is eligible by checking that they are a resident of Florida and not enrolled in public or private school.
2. Submit an application: You can start the application process by visiting the Step Up for Students application page. Applications are accepted year-round, but it’s best to apply early, as the state caps the number of scholarships available each year.
3. Create a Student Learning Plan: Once you’ve been approved, you’ll need to submit a student learning plan, detailing how you’ll use the funds to educate your child.
4. Complete annual testing: To remain eligible for funding each year, PEP requires that students undergo standardized testing or evaluations, ensuring they are meeting their educational goals.
Why Should You Apply?
Homeschooling allows you to offer a personalized education tailored to your child’s strengths and interests, and PEP makes it easier to provide that experience without financial stress. With rising costs in everything from textbooks to technology, the ability to access up to $10,000 per child each school year can make a world of difference.
If you’re not sure about the details or have questions, the Step Up for Students website has a wealth of information, and you can even reach out to their team for support during the application process.
You Have Options!
In Florida, you don’t have to settle for one-size-fits-all education. With resources like the PEP scholarship, you can give your child the education they deserve while managing the costs effectively. Remember, the sooner you apply, the better—scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Take control of your child’s learning journey today!
For more information and to get started, visit the Step Up for Students PEP application page here:https://www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/personalized-education-program/. Don’t forget, Bay County parents—you do have options!
Written By: Stephen Despin Jr. | Founder/Contributor
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