🌿 Homeschool 101: Getting Started with Homeschooling in Florida

Thinking about homeschooling in Florida? You’re not alone! Thousands of families across the Sunshine State are choosing to bring learning home — and discovering that homeschooling offers freedom, flexibility, and family connection like never before.

Whether you’re exploring homeschooling for the first time or preparing to make the leap, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, including Florida homeschool laws, scholarship options, and support from The Homeschool Hive.

🏡 What Does It Mean to Homeschool in Florida?

Homeschooling in Florida means that parents take full responsibility for directing their child’s education — from choosing curriculum to setting the pace of learning.

Florida law (Statute 1002.41) gives families the freedom to homeschool as long as they meet a few basic requirements:

1. Submit a Letter of Intent to your local school district superintendent.

2. Maintain a portfolio of educational records and samples of your child’s work.

3. Complete an annual evaluation to show educational progress.

4. Submit the evaluation to your county on or before the anniversary of your Letter of Intent.

✨ Don’t worry — it’s simpler than it sounds! The Homeschool Hive offers friendly, experienced evaluators and consultants who walk Florida families through every step of this process.

🌞 Why Choose Homeschooling in Florida?

Families choose homeschooling for all kinds of reasons — flexibility, safety, personalized learning, or a desire for more family time. Here are some of the top benefits:

• Freedom to learn your way: Design a schedule and curriculum that fits your child’s learning style and your family’s rhythm.

• More meaningful learning: Connect lessons to real life — whether that’s nature walks, art projects, or travel.

• Stronger family connections: Learning together creates memories that last a lifetime.

• Tailored support: Florida homeschoolers have access to numerous programs, communities, and resources — including The Homeschool Hive!

💰 Florida Scholarships for Homeschoolers

Florida is one of the most homeschool-friendly states — and now, with the expansion of Education Savings Account (ESA) programs, families have even more opportunities.

Here’s a quick breakdown of current Florida homeschool scholarship options:

🎓 PEP (Personalized Education Program)

The PEP scholarship allows families to customize their child’s education using state funds — covering curriculum, tutoring, classes, materials, and more.

PEP families are not registered with their county and do not submit portfolios or evaluations to the school district. Instead, they work with their Scholarship Funding Organization (SFO), such as Step Up for Students, for accountability and spending.

✨ The Homeschool Hive provides consulting services to help families understand funding rules, select curriculum, complete testing requirements, and keep organized for their SFO reporting.

📘 UA (Unique Abilities)  Homeschoolers

Families who homeschool under Florida Statute 1002.41 (traditional “home education” families) and receive the Unique Abilities scholarship.

UA families submit a Letter of Intent, keep a portfolio, and complete an annual evaluation that’s submitted to their county each year.

If your child qualifies with an approved medical diagnosis, this scholarship can be very beneficial, and many choose this route for the freedom and privacy it offers.

🌿 The Homeschool Hive proudly serves UA families across Florida with:

• 💛 Gentle, supportive portfolio evaluations

• 🧠 Flexible testing options

• 📚 Personalized consulting and planning

Whether you’re PEP or UA, The Homeschool Hive has resources to guide your family every step of the way. **Please head to Step Up For Students for more information on how to apply and guidelines for each scholarship. 

🧭 How to Get Started with Homeschooling in Florida

Starting can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s your simple roadmap:

1. Decide your path – UA (county registered), PEP (scholarship-based), or no scholarship.

2. File your Letter of Intent (this does not apply to PEP students).

3. Choose your curriculum – The Homeschool Hive consultants can help you match your child’s learning style and your budget.

4. Set up your homeschool space – A corner of your living room, kitchen table, or outdoor nook works perfectly!

5. Keep a simple portfolio – Save samples of work, reading lists, and notes about your child’s progress.

6. Schedule your annual evaluation with a supportive evaluator through The Homeschool Hive.

✨ Need guidance? Book a Homeschool Start-Up Consultation with The Homeschool Hive — we’ll walk you through the entire process and help you feel confident and compliant from day one.

💬 Real Talk: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Homeschooling is a beautiful journey — but it’s even better with a supportive community by your side.

The Homeschool Hive was created by homeschoolers, for homeschoolers. We offer:

• 📝 Annual Evaluations

• 🧠 Testing Options

• 🌻 Homeschool Consulting

• 🪶 Parent Support & Resources

Whether you’re trying to understand Florida homeschool laws, navigating PEP scholarships, or choosing your first curriculum, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

💛 Let’s make homeschooling simple, successful, and full of joy.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Homeschooling in Florida opens the door to endless possibilities — from hands-on learning adventures to personalized education that fits your child perfectly.

With the right information, a supportive community, and resources like The Homeschool Hive, your family can homeschool confidently and thrive.

📅 Ready to begin your homeschool journey?
👉 Visit The Homeschool Hive to schedule your consultation, evaluation, or testing today — and join a community that believes in family, freedom, and lifelong learning.