Step Up For Students & ESA Funding
At SCA, we are committed to making a high-quality education accessible to families throughout Orlando. Through our strategic partnership with New Heights, we are proud to accept Florida Choice Choice Scholarships administered by Step Up For Students (SUFS).
Whether your student qualifies for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC), the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO), or the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA), our collaborative structure allows you to maximize your state-approved funding.
How Our Partnership Works
To ensure seamless processing and compliance with the Florida Department of Education guidelines, SCA partners directly with New Heights to facilitate educational tracking and tuition management.
1. Eligibility & Awarding: Families must first apply directly through Step Up For Students and receive an active award for the current academic year.
2. Provider Portal Navigation: Through our partnership with New Heights, eligible fees and tuition can be directly managed or submitted for approval using the SUFS Education Management Assistant (EMA) portal.
3. Co-Enrollment / Hybrid Alignment: For programs utilizing a Personalized Education Program (PEP) or specialized unique ability funds, our partnership ensures your student meets the structural framework required by state purchasing handbooks.
Scholarship Amounts
Amounts vary by county, grade level, and scholarship type. For the 2026-27 school year:
► Private School Choice and PEP: Average around $8,000. For example, in Orange County (near Doctor Phillips): the amounts are listed as $7,831 for 4-8, $7,639 for 9-12. 11 14
Check the official site by clicking here for your county’s specific amounts.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2026-27 school year are now open. Apply online through the Step Up For Students portal at www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/logins/. You’ll need proof of residency, age, and any required diagnoses. Download the Family Application Checklist from the website for guidance.
Benefits
These scholarships enable personalized education, leading to improved academic outcomes and access to specialized support. Families can choose options that fit their child’s unique needs, such as private schools or home-based learning. Success stories include students excelling in academics and pursuing higher education.
Contact Information
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Website: www.stepupforstudents.org
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Phone: 877-735-7837
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Email: info@stepupforstudents.org
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Address: P.O. Box 54367, Jacksonville, FL 32245-4367
