Getting Started With
Homeschool in Florida
Florida provides Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) that allow families to use state funds for homeschooling. Eligible homeschool families can receive up to $8,000 per year to cover curriculum and other approved education expenses.
BFB is proud to be an approved vendor with Florida's ESA program, Step Up For Students. Learn more about Step Up here.
What You Need to Know
If you're considering homeschooling in Florida, you're in great company. Thousands of families across the state have embraced home education as a flexible, meaningful alternative to traditional schooling. Whether you're just getting started or searching for reliable resources, this guide will walk you through the basics of homeschooling in Florida and offer helpful links to begin with confidence.
Florida Homeschool Laws and Requirements
Florida is considered a homeschool-friendly state with several legal options. The three main ways to legally homeschool in Florida are.
1. Home Education Program – The most common method. Families notify the local school district, keep a portfolio, and complete an annual evaluation.
2.Private Umbrella School – Enroll in a private school that oversees your homeschooling. These schools handle most record-keeping requirements.
3. Certified Private Tutor – Hire a Florida-certified teacher to provide instruction. This method is less commonly used.
There is no required standardized testing unless you select that as your evaluation method. Florida does not mandate a specific curriculum, giving families the freedom to choose what works best for their children.
Helpful Link: Florida Department of Education – Home Education
How to Start Homeschooling in Florida
To begin homeschooling in Florida, choose the legal option that fits your family best. Most families choose the Home Education Program or a private umbrella school for flexibility and ease of compliance.
Steps to get started:
1. Choose your homeschooling method (Home Education Program, umbrella school, or private tutor)
2. Submit a Notice of Intent to your school district (if using the Home Education Program)
3. Select a curriculum that fits your family’s learning style and goals
4. Begin keeping a portfolio and schedule your annual evaluation
5. Join local homeschool groups or co-ops for connection and support
Helpful Link: HSLDA – Florida Homeschooling Laws & Support
Step Up for Students
Florida families who homeschool may be eligible for state-funded scholarships through the Step Up for Students program. This program helps qualifying families access funds for educational materials, including curriculum, technology, therapy, tutoring, and more.
The most relevant option for homeschoolers is the New Worlds or Personalized Education Program (PEP) Scholarship, designed specifically to support flexible, parent-directed education.
How to Apply for Step Up for Students:
1. Visit stepupforstudents.org
2. Create an account and choose the PEP (Personalized Education Program)
3. Complete the application and submit documentation to verify eligibility
4. Once approved, you’ll receive access to an online portal (EMA) where you can manage scholarship funds
How to Use Step Up Funds to Purchase BFB Curriculum
Beautiful Feet Books is an approved provider for Step Up for Students. Once your PEP scholarship is active, you can shop for BFB curriculum using your scholarship account. Here's how:
1. Log in to your EMA account
2. Go to the "Marketplace" or reimbursement section
3. Search for Beautiful Feet Books as a vendor or input your desired curriculum details
4. Submit your purchase request or reimbursement as guided
We’re happy to help with quotes, invoices, or product information you may need for your submission. Contact us anytime.
Florida Homeschool Groups
Homeschooling thrives in community. Florida has a wide variety of homeschool support groups, co-ops, and parent-led networks across the state. These groups offer field trips, park days, enrichment classes, curriculum swaps, and more.
Helpful Link: Find Homeschool Groups in Florida – FPEA
Homeschool Curriculum Options for Florida Families
Florida does not require homeschoolers to use a particular curriculum, so you have the freedom to build an educational plan that fits your child's unique learning style.
At Beautiful Feet Books, we specialize in literature-rich, story-based curriculum designed to cultivate wonder, connection, and deep learning. Our programs are perfect for Florida families looking for a flexible, engaging approach to homeschooling that’s rooted in meaningful books and timeless ideas.