MicroschoolGuide

Microschools in Florida

Last verified 2026-07-04

Florida families can put state education money toward learning outside the district system through Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP. Here is how microschools operate legally here and how the funding actually works.

Legal pathways

Florida has no statute that names "microschools." Programs operate under existing law: PEP/homeschool and private pathways.

Which pathway fits depends on your enrollment, schedule, and whether parents remain the legal educators. Our founder's guide walks through choosing one.

ESA and scholarship funding

Program: Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP

Award amounts change year to year. Check the program site below for the current per-student amount.

Where the money lives: Step Up For Students (MyScholarShop)

High volume state.

How to buy curriculum with Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP

Purchases via MyScholarShop marketplace or reimbursement through Step Up For Students

  1. Confirm your family or program is enrolled and funds are available.
  2. Check the program's approved vendor list before buying.
  3. Buy through the platform or follow the reimbursement process exactly, and keep every receipt.

Browse the vendor directory for curriculum with ESA eligibility flagged, including Real Science 4 Kids for science.

Florida microschool FAQ

Are microschools legal in Florida?
Yes. Florida has no law that names "microschools," so programs operate under existing pathways. PEP/homeschool and private pathways. Confirm the details with your state before enrolling students.
Can families use Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP money for a microschool?
It depends on how your microschool is structured and what the program allows. Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP rules define eligible expenses such as tuition, curriculum, and tutoring. Purchases via MyScholarShop marketplace or reimbursement through Step Up For Students Verify with the program before spending.
How do families buy curriculum with Family Empowerment Scholarship / PEP?
Purchases run through Step Up For Students (MyScholarShop). Families buy from approved vendors on the platform or follow the program's reimbursement process. Purchases via MyScholarShop marketplace or reimbursement through Step Up For Students
Do I need a teaching license to run a microschool in Florida?
Requirements depend on which pathway you operate under (homeschool co-op, private school, or learning center), not on a microschool-specific rule. Read the pathway requirements in the sources below and verify with the state.
Where do I start if I want to open a microschool in Florida?
Read our step-by-step founder's guide, pick your legal pathway, then line up insurance, space, and curriculum. The guide links everything in order.

Sources

Keep going

This is general information, not legal advice. Verify with your state before acting.

See vendors that accept Florida ESA