What Are the Best Ways to Spend Step Up For Students Scholarships Funds in Florida?

Learn how to budget Step Up Education Savings Account funds. Covers tutoring costs, homeschool expenses, therapies, documentation rules, and tips for maximising impact

Nikhil Kasana
Education Analyst

What Are the Best Ways to Spend Step Up For Students Scholarships Funds in Florida?

Learn how to budget Step Up Education Savings Account funds. Covers tutoring costs, homeschool expenses, therapies, documentation rules, and tips for maximising impact

Nikhil Kasana
Education Analyst

Choosing the right educational program in Florida can feel overwhelming. If you've been concerned about affording the support your child needs, a Step Up scholarship can provide significant relief. These scholarships give Florida parents direct control over educational funding. You decide where the money goes - whether for private school tuition, specialized tutoring, or other approved educational services.

This guide explains how families can use Step Up funds, what expenses are allowed, and how tutoring fits into this system. It will also help you understand which scholarship programs are designed for educational savings and how to make the most of the funds to support your child's learning journey.

output

Can I use Step Up for tutoring in Florida?

Your Step Up Education Savings Account offers exceptional flexibility. However, it's essential to know that not all Step Up scholarships can be used for tutoring.

Tutoring services are covered exclusively under two key programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This scholarship is for children with documented special needs.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families.

Both of these scholarships provide an Education Savings Account (ESA), which gives parents direct control over educational funds. You can use these funds for a wide range of educational expenses, including tutoring, curriculum materials, specialized therapies, and standardized testing. The primary goal is to create a customized learning path tailored specifically to your child's needs.

It's important to note which scholarships are NOT eligible for tutoring:

  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC)
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)

These two programs are strictly for private school tuition and fees. They do not provide an ESA for other educational expenses, including tutoring. Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations for your scholarship program is essential for maximizing your benefits.

output

What Step Up scholarships are available?

A Step Up Education Savings Account is a state-funded scholarship program in Florida that provides financial support to eligible students. Unlike traditional scholarships that direct funds to educational institutions, an Education Savings Account transfers money directly to you as the parent or guardian. These funds are deposited into an account you personally manage, allowing you to purchase approved educational products and services.

Here is a detailed overview of the main scholarship programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This specialized scholarship program serves children with documented special needs, including conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Down syndrome. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award amount is approximately $10,000; however, this amount can vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families in Florida. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award is approximately $8,000, providing parents with significant flexibility to select appropriate curriculum materials and educational services that align with their child's specific learning needs and educational goals.
  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) & Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO): These scholarships are for private school tuition and fees only. They do not provide an ESA and are not eligible for tutoring or other educational services.

By understanding the key differences between these programs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your child receives the specific support they need.

output

What can funds cover?

The range of eligible expenses is extensive and comprehensive. Your Education Savings Account funds can be used for numerous educational purposes. For instance, one Jacksonville parent successfully utilized her Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with unique abilities to cover both specialized speech therapy and weekly mathematics tutoring. She reported that this comprehensive approach made a significant positive impact on her child's academic progress.

  • Tutoring: Tutero offers personalized one-on-one academic support across numerous subjects. This includes assistance with standard school curriculum, specialized test preparation for college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT and targeted interventions for specific learning challenges. For homeschooling families, tutoring can serve as a core component of the educational plan, while for other students, it provides critical, individualized support.
  • Curriculum & Materials: Your funds can be used to purchase textbooks, educational workbooks, online learning platform subscriptions, and other essential instructional materials necessary for your child's education.
  • Therapies: The scholarship covers various therapeutic services provided by licensed professionals, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions when educationally relevant.
  • Testing: Your funds can be applied toward standardized testing fees, including college entrance examinations like the SAT or ACT, as well as specialized educational assessments and evaluations.
  • Enrichment: The scholarship covers supplementary educational activities such as academic summer programs, educational camps, and other structured learning opportunities that enhance your child's educational experience.

What about homeschooling?

Many Florida families choose the homeschooling option and utilize their Step Up funds to support this educational approach. It's essential to recognize that homeschooling families are subject to a distinct set of regulations.

  • Homeschooling families (under the Personalized Education Program or PEP) can use their annual stipend for a wide range of expenses, including curriculum, materials, and tutoring, which are considered a core part of their comprehensive educational program.
  • Non-homeschooling families (under the Unique Abilities Scholarship or FES-UA) often use their funds to supplement their child’s traditional school experience with tutoring and therapies that address specific needs.

Regardless of your educational approach, maintaining detailed documentation of all expenses is crucial, including everything from educational materials to tutoring sessions.

output

How to Get Started

Parents can choose any approved provider listed in the Education Market Assistant (EMA) portal. For tutoring, Tutero is an approved provider that handles the process directly, removing reimbursement headaches.

As an approved provider in the EMA portal, we handle the payment process directly, so you don't have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses or the complexities of submitting reimbursement requests.

For tutoring with Tutero, simply contact us. We’ll walk you through the next steps and show you exactly how to use your Step Up scholarship funds directly through the EMA portal. This direct payment method is a key advantage, ensuring you can focus on your child's education without administrative burdens.

It's important to note that while Tutero simplifies the process, some educational services from other, non-direct-pay providers may still require you to pay first and then seek reimbursement from Step Up For Students. In those cases, you would be responsible for submitting the necessary documentation through the EMA portal yourself.

output

Next Steps for Parents

Step Up scholarships provide Florida families with unprecedented educational flexibility. To maximize your child's educational journey, start by confirming which scholarship they have, as tutoring is covered exclusively by the Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA) and Personalized Education Program (PEP) programs. If your child is eligible, the next step is simple: contact Tutero directly. We will handle all the administrative details, including setting up direct payments through the EMA portal so you can avoid out-of-pocket costs and focus on your child's academic growth.

For any questions about other eligible expenses—from curriculum to therapies—the Step Up For Students website remains a comprehensive resource. By taking these steps, you can confidently use your scholarship to ensure your child receives the precise, personalized support they need to thrive.

Choosing the right educational program in Florida can feel overwhelming. If you've been concerned about affording the support your child needs, a Step Up scholarship can provide significant relief. These scholarships give Florida parents direct control over educational funding. You decide where the money goes - whether for private school tuition, specialized tutoring, or other approved educational services.

This guide explains how families can use Step Up funds, what expenses are allowed, and how tutoring fits into this system. It will also help you understand which scholarship programs are designed for educational savings and how to make the most of the funds to support your child's learning journey.

output

Can I use Step Up for tutoring in Florida?

Your Step Up Education Savings Account offers exceptional flexibility. However, it's essential to know that not all Step Up scholarships can be used for tutoring.

Tutoring services are covered exclusively under two key programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This scholarship is for children with documented special needs.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families.

Both of these scholarships provide an Education Savings Account (ESA), which gives parents direct control over educational funds. You can use these funds for a wide range of educational expenses, including tutoring, curriculum materials, specialized therapies, and standardized testing. The primary goal is to create a customized learning path tailored specifically to your child's needs.

It's important to note which scholarships are NOT eligible for tutoring:

  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC)
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)

These two programs are strictly for private school tuition and fees. They do not provide an ESA for other educational expenses, including tutoring. Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations for your scholarship program is essential for maximizing your benefits.

output

What Step Up scholarships are available?

A Step Up Education Savings Account is a state-funded scholarship program in Florida that provides financial support to eligible students. Unlike traditional scholarships that direct funds to educational institutions, an Education Savings Account transfers money directly to you as the parent or guardian. These funds are deposited into an account you personally manage, allowing you to purchase approved educational products and services.

Here is a detailed overview of the main scholarship programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This specialized scholarship program serves children with documented special needs, including conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Down syndrome. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award amount is approximately $10,000; however, this amount can vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families in Florida. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award is approximately $8,000, providing parents with significant flexibility to select appropriate curriculum materials and educational services that align with their child's specific learning needs and educational goals.
  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) & Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO): These scholarships are for private school tuition and fees only. They do not provide an ESA and are not eligible for tutoring or other educational services.

By understanding the key differences between these programs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your child receives the specific support they need.

output

What can funds cover?

The range of eligible expenses is extensive and comprehensive. Your Education Savings Account funds can be used for numerous educational purposes. For instance, one Jacksonville parent successfully utilized her Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with unique abilities to cover both specialized speech therapy and weekly mathematics tutoring. She reported that this comprehensive approach made a significant positive impact on her child's academic progress.

  • Tutoring: Tutero offers personalized one-on-one academic support across numerous subjects. This includes assistance with standard school curriculum, specialized test preparation for college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT and targeted interventions for specific learning challenges. For homeschooling families, tutoring can serve as a core component of the educational plan, while for other students, it provides critical, individualized support.
  • Curriculum & Materials: Your funds can be used to purchase textbooks, educational workbooks, online learning platform subscriptions, and other essential instructional materials necessary for your child's education.
  • Therapies: The scholarship covers various therapeutic services provided by licensed professionals, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions when educationally relevant.
  • Testing: Your funds can be applied toward standardized testing fees, including college entrance examinations like the SAT or ACT, as well as specialized educational assessments and evaluations.
  • Enrichment: The scholarship covers supplementary educational activities such as academic summer programs, educational camps, and other structured learning opportunities that enhance your child's educational experience.

What about homeschooling?

Many Florida families choose the homeschooling option and utilize their Step Up funds to support this educational approach. It's essential to recognize that homeschooling families are subject to a distinct set of regulations.

  • Homeschooling families (under the Personalized Education Program or PEP) can use their annual stipend for a wide range of expenses, including curriculum, materials, and tutoring, which are considered a core part of their comprehensive educational program.
  • Non-homeschooling families (under the Unique Abilities Scholarship or FES-UA) often use their funds to supplement their child’s traditional school experience with tutoring and therapies that address specific needs.

Regardless of your educational approach, maintaining detailed documentation of all expenses is crucial, including everything from educational materials to tutoring sessions.

output

How to Get Started

Parents can choose any approved provider listed in the Education Market Assistant (EMA) portal. For tutoring, Tutero is an approved provider that handles the process directly, removing reimbursement headaches.

As an approved provider in the EMA portal, we handle the payment process directly, so you don't have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses or the complexities of submitting reimbursement requests.

For tutoring with Tutero, simply contact us. We’ll walk you through the next steps and show you exactly how to use your Step Up scholarship funds directly through the EMA portal. This direct payment method is a key advantage, ensuring you can focus on your child's education without administrative burdens.

It's important to note that while Tutero simplifies the process, some educational services from other, non-direct-pay providers may still require you to pay first and then seek reimbursement from Step Up For Students. In those cases, you would be responsible for submitting the necessary documentation through the EMA portal yourself.

output

Next Steps for Parents

Step Up scholarships provide Florida families with unprecedented educational flexibility. To maximize your child's educational journey, start by confirming which scholarship they have, as tutoring is covered exclusively by the Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA) and Personalized Education Program (PEP) programs. If your child is eligible, the next step is simple: contact Tutero directly. We will handle all the administrative details, including setting up direct payments through the EMA portal so you can avoid out-of-pocket costs and focus on your child's academic growth.

For any questions about other eligible expenses—from curriculum to therapies—the Step Up For Students website remains a comprehensive resource. By taking these steps, you can confidently use your scholarship to ensure your child receives the precise, personalized support they need to thrive.

FAQ

What age groups are covered by online maths tutoring?
plusminus

Online maths tutoring at Tutero is catering to students of all year levels. We offer programs tailored to the unique learning curves of each age group.

Are there specific programs for students preparing for particular exams like NAPLAN or ATAR?
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We also have expert NAPLAN and ATAR subject tutors, ensuring students are well-equipped for these pivotal assessments.

How often should my child have tutoring sessions to see significant improvement?
plusminus

We recommend at least two to three session per week for consistent progress. However, this can vary based on your child's needs and goals.

What safety measures are in place to ensure online tutoring sessions are secure and protected?
plusminus

Our platform uses advanced security protocols to ensure the safety and privacy of all our online sessions.

Can I sit in on the tutoring sessions to observe and support my child?
plusminus

Parents are welcome to observe sessions. We believe in a collaborative approach to education.

How do I measure the progress my child is making with online tutoring?
plusminus

We provide regular progress reports and assessments to track your child’s academic development.

What happens if my child isn't clicking with their assigned tutor? Can we request a change?
plusminus

Yes, we prioritise the student-tutor relationship and can arrange a change if the need arises.

Are there any additional resources or tools available to support students learning maths, besides tutoring sessions?
plusminus

Yes, we offer a range of resources and materials, including interactive exercises and practice worksheets.

Choosing the right educational program in Florida can feel overwhelming. If you've been concerned about affording the support your child needs, a Step Up scholarship can provide significant relief. These scholarships give Florida parents direct control over educational funding. You decide where the money goes - whether for private school tuition, specialized tutoring, or other approved educational services.

This guide explains how families can use Step Up funds, what expenses are allowed, and how tutoring fits into this system. It will also help you understand which scholarship programs are designed for educational savings and how to make the most of the funds to support your child's learning journey.

output

Can I use Step Up for tutoring in Florida?

Your Step Up Education Savings Account offers exceptional flexibility. However, it's essential to know that not all Step Up scholarships can be used for tutoring.

Tutoring services are covered exclusively under two key programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This scholarship is for children with documented special needs.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families.

Both of these scholarships provide an Education Savings Account (ESA), which gives parents direct control over educational funds. You can use these funds for a wide range of educational expenses, including tutoring, curriculum materials, specialized therapies, and standardized testing. The primary goal is to create a customized learning path tailored specifically to your child's needs.

It's important to note which scholarships are NOT eligible for tutoring:

  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC)
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)

These two programs are strictly for private school tuition and fees. They do not provide an ESA for other educational expenses, including tutoring. Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations for your scholarship program is essential for maximizing your benefits.

output

What Step Up scholarships are available?

A Step Up Education Savings Account is a state-funded scholarship program in Florida that provides financial support to eligible students. Unlike traditional scholarships that direct funds to educational institutions, an Education Savings Account transfers money directly to you as the parent or guardian. These funds are deposited into an account you personally manage, allowing you to purchase approved educational products and services.

Here is a detailed overview of the main scholarship programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This specialized scholarship program serves children with documented special needs, including conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Down syndrome. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award amount is approximately $10,000; however, this amount can vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families in Florida. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award is approximately $8,000, providing parents with significant flexibility to select appropriate curriculum materials and educational services that align with their child's specific learning needs and educational goals.
  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) & Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO): These scholarships are for private school tuition and fees only. They do not provide an ESA and are not eligible for tutoring or other educational services.

By understanding the key differences between these programs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your child receives the specific support they need.

output

What can funds cover?

The range of eligible expenses is extensive and comprehensive. Your Education Savings Account funds can be used for numerous educational purposes. For instance, one Jacksonville parent successfully utilized her Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with unique abilities to cover both specialized speech therapy and weekly mathematics tutoring. She reported that this comprehensive approach made a significant positive impact on her child's academic progress.

  • Tutoring: Tutero offers personalized one-on-one academic support across numerous subjects. This includes assistance with standard school curriculum, specialized test preparation for college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT and targeted interventions for specific learning challenges. For homeschooling families, tutoring can serve as a core component of the educational plan, while for other students, it provides critical, individualized support.
  • Curriculum & Materials: Your funds can be used to purchase textbooks, educational workbooks, online learning platform subscriptions, and other essential instructional materials necessary for your child's education.
  • Therapies: The scholarship covers various therapeutic services provided by licensed professionals, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions when educationally relevant.
  • Testing: Your funds can be applied toward standardized testing fees, including college entrance examinations like the SAT or ACT, as well as specialized educational assessments and evaluations.
  • Enrichment: The scholarship covers supplementary educational activities such as academic summer programs, educational camps, and other structured learning opportunities that enhance your child's educational experience.

What about homeschooling?

Many Florida families choose the homeschooling option and utilize their Step Up funds to support this educational approach. It's essential to recognize that homeschooling families are subject to a distinct set of regulations.

  • Homeschooling families (under the Personalized Education Program or PEP) can use their annual stipend for a wide range of expenses, including curriculum, materials, and tutoring, which are considered a core part of their comprehensive educational program.
  • Non-homeschooling families (under the Unique Abilities Scholarship or FES-UA) often use their funds to supplement their child’s traditional school experience with tutoring and therapies that address specific needs.

Regardless of your educational approach, maintaining detailed documentation of all expenses is crucial, including everything from educational materials to tutoring sessions.

output

How to Get Started

Parents can choose any approved provider listed in the Education Market Assistant (EMA) portal. For tutoring, Tutero is an approved provider that handles the process directly, removing reimbursement headaches.

As an approved provider in the EMA portal, we handle the payment process directly, so you don't have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses or the complexities of submitting reimbursement requests.

For tutoring with Tutero, simply contact us. We’ll walk you through the next steps and show you exactly how to use your Step Up scholarship funds directly through the EMA portal. This direct payment method is a key advantage, ensuring you can focus on your child's education without administrative burdens.

It's important to note that while Tutero simplifies the process, some educational services from other, non-direct-pay providers may still require you to pay first and then seek reimbursement from Step Up For Students. In those cases, you would be responsible for submitting the necessary documentation through the EMA portal yourself.

output

Next Steps for Parents

Step Up scholarships provide Florida families with unprecedented educational flexibility. To maximize your child's educational journey, start by confirming which scholarship they have, as tutoring is covered exclusively by the Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA) and Personalized Education Program (PEP) programs. If your child is eligible, the next step is simple: contact Tutero directly. We will handle all the administrative details, including setting up direct payments through the EMA portal so you can avoid out-of-pocket costs and focus on your child's academic growth.

For any questions about other eligible expenses—from curriculum to therapies—the Step Up For Students website remains a comprehensive resource. By taking these steps, you can confidently use your scholarship to ensure your child receives the precise, personalized support they need to thrive.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

Choosing the right educational program in Florida can feel overwhelming. If you've been concerned about affording the support your child needs, a Step Up scholarship can provide significant relief. These scholarships give Florida parents direct control over educational funding. You decide where the money goes - whether for private school tuition, specialized tutoring, or other approved educational services.

This guide explains how families can use Step Up funds, what expenses are allowed, and how tutoring fits into this system. It will also help you understand which scholarship programs are designed for educational savings and how to make the most of the funds to support your child's learning journey.

output

Can I use Step Up for tutoring in Florida?

Your Step Up Education Savings Account offers exceptional flexibility. However, it's essential to know that not all Step Up scholarships can be used for tutoring.

Tutoring services are covered exclusively under two key programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This scholarship is for children with documented special needs.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families.

Both of these scholarships provide an Education Savings Account (ESA), which gives parents direct control over educational funds. You can use these funds for a wide range of educational expenses, including tutoring, curriculum materials, specialized therapies, and standardized testing. The primary goal is to create a customized learning path tailored specifically to your child's needs.

It's important to note which scholarships are NOT eligible for tutoring:

  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC)
  • Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO)

These two programs are strictly for private school tuition and fees. They do not provide an ESA for other educational expenses, including tutoring. Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations for your scholarship program is essential for maximizing your benefits.

output

What Step Up scholarships are available?

A Step Up Education Savings Account is a state-funded scholarship program in Florida that provides financial support to eligible students. Unlike traditional scholarships that direct funds to educational institutions, an Education Savings Account transfers money directly to you as the parent or guardian. These funds are deposited into an account you personally manage, allowing you to purchase approved educational products and services.

Here is a detailed overview of the main scholarship programs:

  • Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA): This specialized scholarship program serves children with documented special needs, including conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or Down syndrome. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award amount is approximately $10,000; however, this amount can vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • Personalized Education Program (PEP): This program is specifically designed to support homeschooling families in Florida. This is an Education Savings Account (ESA) and is eligible for tutoring. The average annual award is approximately $8,000, providing parents with significant flexibility to select appropriate curriculum materials and educational services that align with their child's specific learning needs and educational goals.
  • Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) & Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO): These scholarships are for private school tuition and fees only. They do not provide an ESA and are not eligible for tutoring or other educational services.

By understanding the key differences between these programs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your child receives the specific support they need.

output

What can funds cover?

The range of eligible expenses is extensive and comprehensive. Your Education Savings Account funds can be used for numerous educational purposes. For instance, one Jacksonville parent successfully utilized her Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with unique abilities to cover both specialized speech therapy and weekly mathematics tutoring. She reported that this comprehensive approach made a significant positive impact on her child's academic progress.

  • Tutoring: Tutero offers personalized one-on-one academic support across numerous subjects. This includes assistance with standard school curriculum, specialized test preparation for college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT and targeted interventions for specific learning challenges. For homeschooling families, tutoring can serve as a core component of the educational plan, while for other students, it provides critical, individualized support.
  • Curriculum & Materials: Your funds can be used to purchase textbooks, educational workbooks, online learning platform subscriptions, and other essential instructional materials necessary for your child's education.
  • Therapies: The scholarship covers various therapeutic services provided by licensed professionals, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions when educationally relevant.
  • Testing: Your funds can be applied toward standardized testing fees, including college entrance examinations like the SAT or ACT, as well as specialized educational assessments and evaluations.
  • Enrichment: The scholarship covers supplementary educational activities such as academic summer programs, educational camps, and other structured learning opportunities that enhance your child's educational experience.

What about homeschooling?

Many Florida families choose the homeschooling option and utilize their Step Up funds to support this educational approach. It's essential to recognize that homeschooling families are subject to a distinct set of regulations.

  • Homeschooling families (under the Personalized Education Program or PEP) can use their annual stipend for a wide range of expenses, including curriculum, materials, and tutoring, which are considered a core part of their comprehensive educational program.
  • Non-homeschooling families (under the Unique Abilities Scholarship or FES-UA) often use their funds to supplement their child’s traditional school experience with tutoring and therapies that address specific needs.

Regardless of your educational approach, maintaining detailed documentation of all expenses is crucial, including everything from educational materials to tutoring sessions.

output

How to Get Started

Parents can choose any approved provider listed in the Education Market Assistant (EMA) portal. For tutoring, Tutero is an approved provider that handles the process directly, removing reimbursement headaches.

As an approved provider in the EMA portal, we handle the payment process directly, so you don't have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses or the complexities of submitting reimbursement requests.

For tutoring with Tutero, simply contact us. We’ll walk you through the next steps and show you exactly how to use your Step Up scholarship funds directly through the EMA portal. This direct payment method is a key advantage, ensuring you can focus on your child's education without administrative burdens.

It's important to note that while Tutero simplifies the process, some educational services from other, non-direct-pay providers may still require you to pay first and then seek reimbursement from Step Up For Students. In those cases, you would be responsible for submitting the necessary documentation through the EMA portal yourself.

output

Next Steps for Parents

Step Up scholarships provide Florida families with unprecedented educational flexibility. To maximize your child's educational journey, start by confirming which scholarship they have, as tutoring is covered exclusively by the Unique Abilities Scholarship (FES-UA) and Personalized Education Program (PEP) programs. If your child is eligible, the next step is simple: contact Tutero directly. We will handle all the administrative details, including setting up direct payments through the EMA portal so you can avoid out-of-pocket costs and focus on your child's academic growth.

For any questions about other eligible expenses—from curriculum to therapies—the Step Up For Students website remains a comprehensive resource. By taking these steps, you can confidently use your scholarship to ensure your child receives the precise, personalized support they need to thrive.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

What happens if I run out of funds mid-year?
plus

If you use all your funds before the year is over, you will need to cover the costs yourself. It is very important to budget carefully. You can always reach out to Tutero for help planning your tutoring budget.

Can Step Up cover summer tutoring?
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Yes, you can use your scholarship funds for summer tutoring. This is a great way to prevent the "summer slide." Just be sure you have funds available in your account.

How often should I submit reimbursements?
plus

It is a good idea to submit them once a month. This makes it easier to keep track of your spending and get your money back faster.

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