Step Up for Students Scholarships at Legacy Online School
Legacy Online School is proud to accept the Step Up for Students scholarships for Florida K-12 students. Step Up for Students is a state-approved nonprofit organization that administers Florida’s school choice scholarships, helping families afford private education. These scholarships provide significant financial assistance (averaging around $7,800 per student toward tuition), which can save families thousands of dollars in education costs. By using a Step Up scholarship at Legacy, you can give your child a high-quality, accredited online education with minimal out-of-pocket expense.
What is the Step Up for Students Program?
Step Up for Students is a Florida scholarship program that empowers families to choose the best learning environment for their children. It is funded by private donations and approved by the state to offer K-12 scholarships for tuition and educational expenses. Scholarships are available to all Florida students in grades K–12, with priority for lower-income families; recent legislation expanded eligibility so that by 2027 every Florida child can receive scholarship funds regardless of income. In other words, if you reside in Florida and have a school-age child, you likely qualify to apply. The scholarships can cover tuition and fees at eligible private schools (including online schools like Legacy), homeschooling costs, and other approved educational services.
Scholarships Available through Step Up (Florida)
Family Empowerment Scholarship – Unique Abilities (FES-UA)
Designed for students with disabilities or special needs, this scholarship provides funds for private school tuition, therapies, curriculum, and other educational services tailored to the child’s needs. If your child has an IEP or a diagnosed learning difference, the FES-UA (formerly the Gardiner Scholarship) can help make a Legacy education more accessible. Legacy Online School is equipped to serve students with IEPs and diverse learning needs, and we gladly accept FES-UA funds.
Which scholarships does Legacy accept?
Currently, Legacy Online School accepts the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) and the Personalized Education Program (PEP). These scholarships can be applied toward tuition and fees. Please note that each student may use only one scholarship program per school year, as multiple scholarships cannot be combined.
How to Apply for a Scholarship and Enroll at Legacy?
Using a Step Up scholarship at Legacy Online School involves a few simple steps. Our goal is to make the process clear and easy for busy parents. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for the scholarship and enrolling your child:
1. Apply online with Step Up for Students
Visit the official Step Up for Students website and submit an application for the appropriate scholarship program. You will need to create an account and fill out the online application during the open enrollment period for the upcoming school year. Be prepared to provide documentation (such as proof of income for FTC, or a diagnosis for FES-UA). Apply as early as possible, because scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and demand is high.
2. Complete Legacy Online School’s admission process
Applying for the scholarship is not the same as enrolling at Legacy. You will also need to apply for admission to Legacy Online School (this can be done concurrently). Submit an enrollment application through our website’s Admissions page so that we can reserve a spot for your child. Receiving a scholarship award letter alone does not automatically enroll your child. Our team will reach out to guide you through placement and orientation once we receive your school application.
3. Secure your scholarship award
After you apply, Step Up for Students will review your application. If approved, you will receive an award letter or notification detailing which scholarship your child has been awarded and the amount.
4. Redeem your scholarship through the Marketplace
Log in to your Step Up scholarship portal. Select the Marketplace tab and your student’s account. Search for “Legacy Online School” or “Legacy School Inc.” in the Scholarship Marketplace. Add the program to your cart and submit your purchase, making sure you select the correct option.
5. Confirm your enrollment
Check your email for confirmations from both Legacy Online School and the Step Up Scholarship program with details about your enrollment. Once your scholarship is applied, you can finalize any remaining steps such as class scheduling and orientation.
6. Start learning at Legacy
Your child can then begin classes with us, funded by the scholarship. Step Up scholarships typically cover a substantial portion of private school tuition — often most or all of Legacy’s affordable $149/month tuition fee. If any tuition or fees are not fully covered, we also offer flexible payment plans for the difference.
Important: Scholarship awards cannot be combined. If your child receives a Step Up scholarship, they cannot use a second scholarship from another program in the same school year. However, the award can cover tuition, and any leftover funds (for FES-UA or PEP accounts) may be used for other approved educational expenses like curriculum or exams. Legacy’s admissions team will help ensure you make the most of your scholarship funds.
Why Choose Legacy Online School?
Using your Step Up scholarship at Legacy Online School comes with many benefits for your family:
Fully Accredited, Quality Education
Legacy is a WASC-accredited, NCAA-approved K–12 online school offering a recognized U.S. diploma. Our Florida-standard curriculum ensures quality, and tuition starts at just $149/month—often fully covered by a Step Up scholarship.
Qualified Teachers & Live Instruction
Legacy offers small online classes with real-time lessons, group discussions, and individual support from qualified teachers. Students also receive one-on-one help and guidance from a dedicated Learning Support Specialist.
Flexible Learning Options
Legacy Online School offers live group classes, one-on-one tutoring, and self-paced coursework, so families can choose what fits best. Students can also access AP courses, honors classes, and extracurricular activities for a well-rounded education.
Comprehensive Student Support
Legacy provides a full school experience online with virtual clubs and field trips to keep students socially engaged. We ensure a safe, inclusive community, and also offer college guidance with SAT/ACT prep and application support all included in our commitment to student success.
Comprehensive Student Support
At Legacy, your child will enjoy a full school experience online. We host virtual clubs, extracurricular activities, and even field trips to keep students socially engaged. Our community is supportive and inclusive, and we prioritize a safe learning environment (bullying is not tolerated – see our Anti-Bullying Policy). We also provide college guidance services, helping high school students with SAT/ACT prep, college applications, and personal development. All of this is included as part of our commitment to student success.
By choosing Legacy Online School, you ensure your Step Up scholarship is put to best use – your child gets a top-tier education without the hefty price tag. It’s the ideal combination of quality and affordability that Florida families deserve. As a result, you can focus on your child’s learning, not the tuition bill.
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step? Using a Step Up for Students scholarship at Legacy Online School is a straightforward way to make private education accessible for your family. We encourage you to apply for the scholarship and secure your child’s spot at Legacy as early as possible. If you need any help with the application process or have questions, our admissions team is here to assist.
Contact us to discuss your child’s needs or to learn more about how Legacy works with these scholarships. We can guide you through each step – from applying on the Step Up website to enrolling at Legacy. Our goal is to make it easy for busy parents to provide an excellent education for their children.
How Does the Scholarship Empower Students?
The Step Up For Students scholarship program in Florida is designed to provide educational opportunities for students who may not thrive in their current educational environment. By offering scholarships for private school tuition, the program empowers students to select a scholarship that suits their individual needs, whether it be for special needs, disabilities, or unique abilities. This personalization in education helps students excel in their academic journey and reach their full potential, creating a positive impact on their educational outcomes.
Who Is Eligible for the Step Up For Students Scholarship?
Students in Florida whose household income does not exceed 400% of the poverty level. (Example: a family of four cannot have an annual income that exceeds $120,000.00) *This income level is set to increase each year until 2027 when income requirements will be dropped and ALL families are eligible.
Eligible students in Florida can apply for the Step Up For Students scholarship based on criteria set by the program. Students with disabilities, special needs, or those facing bullying issues in their current school are among the eligible candidates. Families looking to explore different educational options for their children are encouraged to participate in the scholarship program and benefit from the opportunities it provides.
How Does the Application Process Work for the Scholarship?
To apply for the Step Up For Students scholarship, families need to apply during the specified period for the upcoming school year. After selecting a scholarship that aligns with the student’s needs, the application undergoes a review process to determine eligibility. Once approved, the scholarship funding organization disburses the award, allowing the student to attend a public school or participating private school of their choice.
What Are the Educational Options with the Family Empowerment Scholarship?
The Family Empowerment Scholarship in Florida provides families with the flexibility to choose educational options that best suit their children’s needs. Whether it’s using the scholarship for private school tuition, setting up a savings account for future educational expenses, or accessing transportation options for school commutes, the program gives families the freedom to make informed decisions about their children’s education.
How Does the Scholarship Support Students with Unique Abilities?
Students with unique abilities are supported through the Family Empowerment Scholarship by offering tailored educational resources to help them thrive. Whether it’s accessing specialized learning materials, receiving additional educational support, or enrolling in programs that cater to their specific talents, the scholarship program ensures that students with unique abilities have the necessary tools to succeed academically and personally.
Who Are the Providers for the Family Empowerment Scholarship?
Providers for the Family Empowerment Scholarship are educational institutions and organizations that meet the criteria set by the Florida Department of Education. These providers offer educational services that cater to students with diverse needs, ensuring that families have access to a wide range of options when utilizing the scholarship for their children’s education.
