Frequently Asked Questions
Is STEM-Light Prep Academy a school?
STEMlight Prep Academy is Not a school. It serves as a home education resource and STEM/STEAM enrichment learning center. Parents choose one or multiple programs from options we provide according to what best suits their kids needs and supports their learning goals and plans.
What is the enrollment process?
The enrollment process starts by filling out our contact form. We reach out to you and guide you through the steps according to the option you choose. It generally includes a portfolio review and/or an interview/evaluation and/or a letter of recommendation/interest. We will also provide you with a tour of our academy. We prioritize a student's interests, passions, learning style, and family values, we make sure that we are a good fit for the kids.
What do I need to know before I register?
The philosophy of our program is to allow an individualized approach to learning, in which kids are able to create their own learning plans according to their interests, goals, and learning pace with a guide by their side. We are a STEM-focused academy, so kids receive a tailored learning experience that meets their unique learning needs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. We strive to make these subject areas more relevant for the kids by integrating real-world applications and hands-on projects. We have an excellent Arts Enrichment program as well where learners dive into creative projects, experiment with different mediums, and build confidence through artistic expression and hands‑on design experiences.
Our goal is to cultivate critical thinkers, problem solvers, and compassionate individuals who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. By combining rigorous STEM education with a strong moral foundation, we aim to inspire a lifelong love of learning and a commitment to ethical leadership.
We do not offer IEP or Special Education services.
What is a Choice Navigator?
"Choice navigators" provide consultations to students and families on: The selection of, application for, and enrollment in educational options addressing the academics needs of the student. We help you navigate non-traditional education choices and also help parents understand their child's learning needs, support planning, offer guidance and provide observational insights
Learning Metrics
We can provide real-time diagnostic testing services to parents upon request for Math and English as a part of our choice navigator services.
Step Up for Students PEP Program
We are an approved provider through the FTC-PEP Program.
Students who receive this scholarship are registered as PEP students with Step up for Students. Please refer to https://www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/personalized-education-program/ for more information regarding this scholarship.
Payment Options
Direct Pay or Stepup PEP
Do public high schools accept non-traditional education or homeschool students?
Yes. Compulsory aged students are not denied access to public high school in their assigned area where they live. Grades K-2 are required to complete a portfolio review to satisfy home education requirements for the county. Parents are required to submit all paperwork to their county if they are registered as home education students. Step up PEP families are required to submit norm referenced testing at the end of the year for PEP scholarship renewal. S.P.A provides artifacts from each student's work for the time they spend with us, so if the parent's choose, it can become a part of their child's portfolio. We offer year-end norm- referenced testing for homeschoolers as a part of our choice navigator services upon parents' request.
Do high schools accept credit from non-traditional classes?
In order to transfer to a public high school and/or being able to get credit for advanced high school courses, students are suggested that they take an accredited course online through FLVS to receive actual credit on high school transcripts or be prepared to take the EOC assessments and make arrangements with their home district to do so. Students can take a Florida Virtual class in these subjects and complete work during Stemlight's time. Make an appointment with the choice navigator to learn in detail about your options.
Do Colleges/Universities accept non-traditional students?
In Florida, home education is a parent-directed option that meets the state's school attendance requirements. Home-educated students can go on to higher education and qualify for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. You can find more information on scholarships for home-educated students on the FLDOE website. It's always a good idea to check with the university your child plans to attend for specific requirements.
FAQ Disclaimer: These FAQs address common, general questions from families. Because every homeschooling family's situation is unique, please refer to the official resources from the Florida Department of Education and Step Up For Students for the most accurate and up‑to‑date information.