Step Up For Students

Parent Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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What is Step Up For Students?

Step Up For Students is a Florida state-approved scholarship organization that administers education scholarships for eligible K–12 students. These scholarships allow families to customize their child’s education using state-funded scholarship dollars.

 

What scholarships work with The Turning Point School?

We support families using:

• FTC-PEP (Personalized Education Program)

• FTC-UA (Unique Abilities)

Both scholarships allow families to enroll their children in approved instructional programs like The Turning Point School.

 

What is the difference between FTC-PEP and FTC-UA?

FTC PEP

• Designed for homeschool-style education

• Parent directs the student’s education

• Funds may be used for part-time instruction, enrichment, curriculum, tutoring, and educational services

• Student is registered as a home education student

FTC UA

• Designed for students with documented disabilities

• Requires an IEP, 504 Plan, or medical diagnosis

• Allows broader use of funds, including therapies and specialized services

• Can be used in home education, private instruction, or hybrid settings

 

Do I have to homeschool my child to use FTC-PEP?

Yes. Students using FTC PEP must be registered under Florida’s Home Education Program. Parents remain legally responsible for their child’s education and compliance with homeschool requirements.

 

Do I need to withdraw my child from public school before applying?

No.
Do not withdraw your child from public school until:

1. Your Step Up application is approved

2. Scholarship eligibility is confirmed

3. Enrollment with your instructional program is secured

Withdrawing too early can delay or disrupt funding.

 

When should I withdraw my child from public school?

You should withdraw after scholarship approval, not before. Once approved:

• FTC PEP families withdraw to Home Education

• FTC UA families withdraw based on their chosen instructional setting

 

What documents will I need to apply?

Most families will need:

• Parent/guardian ID

• Proof of Florida residency

• Child’s birth certificate or proof of age

• Income documentation (if requested)

FTC UA families also need:

• IEP, 504 Plan, or medical diagnosis from a licensed provider

 

When should I apply?

Applications typically open February 1 each year.

• Applying early increases the chance of funding

• Applications may remain open while funds last

• Late applications are not guaranteed

 

Does receiving a scholarship guarantee enrollment at

The Turning Point School?

No. Scholarship approval and program enrollment are separate processes. Families must:

• Apply to Step Up For Students

• Apply and enroll with The Turning Point School

• Complete all required enrollment paperwork

 

How are payments made to The Turning Point School?

Depending on the scholarship:

• Payments may be made directly through the Step Up portal

• Parents may need to approve invoices or reimbursements

• Families are responsible for monitoring their scholarship accounts

 

What expenses can scholarship funds cover?

Allowable expenses vary by scholarship but may include:

• Instructional program tuition

• Curriculum and educational materials

• Tutoring or academic services

• Educational therapies (FTC UA)

All expenses must meet Step Up For Students approval guidelines.

 

Can I use Step Up funds and still pay privately for services?

Yes. Families may combine:

• Scholarship funds and

• Private payment

Any private payments are handled separately and must follow program policies.

 

What if my scholarship is denied or waitlisted?

Families may:

• Remain on the waitlist

• Reapply during the next application cycle

• Choose private pay enrollment options if available

 

Who manages the scholarship account?

Parents/guardians are responsible for:

• Maintaining their Step Up account

• Approving expenses and invoices

• Ensuring continued eligibility and compliance

The Turning Point School assists with documentation but does not control scholarship funding decisions.

 

Who do I contact if I have scholarship questions?

• Scholarship eligibility, funding, and rules: Step Up For Students

• Program enrollment and instructional services: The Turning Point School

We are happy to help guide you—but final decisions are made by Step Up For Students.

 

Where can I get help applying?

Families can:

• Access Step Up application support online

• Reach out to our office for general guidance

• Request enrollment verification once approved

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Final Reminder for Parents

Step Up scholarships are a powerful tool—but parents remain the decision-makers and managers of their child’s education. Our goal is to partner with families while honoring Florida homeschool and scholarship regulations.