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 center. Parents choose one or multiple programs from options we provide according to what best suits their kids needs.
What is the admissions process?
The admissions process includes an application, 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 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 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 from the point of admission to SPA, 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.
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 learner-led and driven with guidance from educational experts . Math and English digital learning platform programs meet Florida State standards and are monitored regularly.
We conduct one of the Norm-Referenced Assessments by FLDOE test in the fall and spring for grades 3–8 for homeschoolers.
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. Please refer to https://www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/personalized-education-program/ for more information regarding this scholarship.
Payment Options
Direct Pay or Stepup PEP
Parent Involvement
We love parent volunteers if space is available, and parents are interested. We anticipate parents work at home with their kids each week to encourage sports, physical activities, reading, hobbies, personal pursuits as well as continuing work from S.P.A. Fieldtrips are coordinated with parents to find what works for each group best. Our goal is to have an informal Parent/Family events for kids to share what they've learned and display projects.
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. We offer year-end standardized testing with the Norm- Referenced Testing, to show grade level for grades 3-10. 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.