How to Write Your First Student Learning Plan (SLP) for the Florida PEP Scholarship

Navigating the world of Florida homeschooling has become even more exciting with the introduction of the Personalized Education Program (PEP) scholarship. Managed by Step Up For Students, this state-funded Education Savings Account (ESA) provides families with approximately $8,000 to customize their child’s education. However, with great opportunity comes a bit of administrative responsibility—most notably, the Student Learning Plan (SLP).

If you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of writing your first SLP, you’re not alone. The SLP is a foundational document that outlines your educational goals for the year, and it’s a key requirement for maintaining your PEP eligibility. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to approach your SLP with confidence and clarity.

What is a Student Learning Plan (SLP)?

Think of the SLP as your roadmap for the academic year. It isn’t just a “form to fill out”; it’s a strategic document that ensures you have a plan for how you will use your PEP funds to meet your child’s unique needs. The SLP typically covers core subjects and specific learning goals, providing a framework for both your instruction and your expenditures.

Step 1: Identify Your Child’s Strengths and Needs

Before you put pen to paper (or fingers to keys), take a moment to reflect on your child’s current academic standing. Where are they excelling? Where do they need more support? Because the PEP scholarship is all about personalization, your SLP should reflect your child’s actual learning journey.

Tip: If your child has an IEP or 504 plan from a previous school, use those goals as a starting point. As a Florida-certified ESE teacher, I often help parents “translate” these complex documents into actionable homeschool goals.

Step 2: Define Clear, Attainable Goals

Your goals don’t need to be overly complicated, but they should be specific. Instead of writing “Improve at math,” try “Master multi-digit multiplication and division by the end of the second quarter.”

Include goals for core subjects:

Reading and Language Arts

Mathematics

Science

Social Studies

Don’t forget to include goals for electives or specialized instruction if your child is receiving tutoring or therapy!

Step 3: Align Your Curriculum and Resources

This is where the PEP scholarship truly shines. Use your SLP to justify the resources you plan to purchase. Whether you’re choosing a digital curriculum like Time4Learning, a hands-on approach like Moving Beyond the Page, or hiring a specialized tutor, make sure these choices support the goals you’ve outlined.

The Step Up For Students portal allows for a wide range of allowable expenditures, but they must be “instructional” in nature. A well-written SLP serves as your best defense if a purchase is ever questioned.

Step 4: Plan for Assessments

In Florida, homeschooling families (including PEP recipients) must provide an annual educational evaluation. Your SLP should mention how you intend to track progress throughout the year. Will you be using a nationally norm-referenced test? Or are you planning for a teacher-led portfolio review?

Why a Choice Navigator Can Make a Difference

If the process still feels daunting, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. The PEP scholarship specifically allows for the use of funds to hire an approved Choice Navigator.

As a Choice Navigator, I work one-on-one with Florida families to:

Develop comprehensive, compliant SLPs.

Match curriculum to their child’s learning style (especially for ESE students).

Ensure that every dollar of their PEP funding is used effectively.

Final Thoughts

Your first SLP is a declaration of your child’s educational freedom. It’s the first step in a year where learning is designed *around

your child, not the other way around. By taking the time to create a thoughtful plan now, you’re setting the stage for a year of breakthrough and success.

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Are you ready to maximize your Florida PEP scholarship?
Contact Educational Options LLC today to learn more about our Choice Navigator services and how we can help you build the perfect roadmap for your child’s education.