Frequently Asked Questions
Is STEM-Light Prep Academy a school?
STEMlight Prep Academy is not a traditional school. It serves as a home education resource and STEM/STEAM enrichment center, where students participate in 16 to 24 hours of in-person learning each week and complete an additional 4-5 hours at home. STEMlight Prep is a collaborative community of families and professionals dedicated to providing education for grades K–8
What is the admissions process?
The admissions process includes an application, portfolio review, an interview and a letter of recommendation/interest. We will also provide you with a tour of our academy. Grades or transcripts are not required. We prioritize a student's interests, passions, learning style, and family values, we make sure that we are a good fit for the kids and that the kid is a fit for our learning community.
What do I need to know before I register?
The philosophy of our program is to allow an individualized approach to learning, in which students 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 microschool, so from the point of admission, students 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 students by integrating real-world applications and hands-on projects.
Additionally, we emphasize the importance of faith-based values, fostering a nurturing environment where students can grow both academically and spiritually. 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.
Learning Metrics (Standardized Testing)
Our program is student-led and driven with guidance from educational experts . We do not teach to the test. Math and English online programs meet Florida State standards and are monitored regularly.
We conduct the MAP Standardized test in the fall and spring for grades 3–8.
Step Up for Students PEP Program
We are an approved provider through the FTC-PEP Program.
Students who receive this scholarship are not enrolled with the county as home education students, and will be registered as PEP students with Step up for Students, which includes having a plan for the year SLP, and completing standardized testing at the end of the year for Grades K–8.
Payment Options
1. (Preferred) Students pay tuition on the first of each month, and then are reimbursed by Step Up after submitting an invoice provided by Stemlight Prep Academy. The registration and curriculum fee is due at the time of registration.
2. Students select Stemlight Prep Academy on the drop-down menu on the first of each month, as well as making a payment to Stemlight Prep Academy for the remaining amount. The first month, registration and curriculum fee will have to be paid at time of registration.
Parent Involvement
We love parent volunteers if space is available, and parents are interested. Anticipated 4 to 5 hours a week of student work at home each week to encourage sports, music, and art, as well as continuing work from S.P.A. Fieldtrips and class parties are coordinated with parents to find what works for each group best. Our goal is to have an informal Parent/Family event each semester for students to share what they've learned and display projects.
Do public high schools accept non-traditional students?
Yes. Compulsory aged students are not denied access to public high school in their assigned area where they live. We offer year-end standardized testing with the MAP test, to show grade level for grades 3-8. Grades K-2 will 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.
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 class-time, or by working at home. 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.