How Umbrella Schools Work (Florida)
A quick guide for families considering a non-campus private (“umbrella”) school.
What it is ?
A Florida non-campus private school that gives families legal cover while parents direct learning at home. Students are enrolled as private school students; the school keeps enrollment/attendance/records and can issue transcripts.
How this differs from county homeschool?
You report to the private school, not the district.
No annual evaluation to the district; attendance is maintained by the school.
The school provides enrollment/withdrawal letters and record-keeping.
What Brightseed handles
Enrollment & withdrawal letters (next business day)
Attendance & cumulative records
Middle/High school transcripts
Optional PEP Concierge support (we follow SFO rules; final approvals are made by the SFO)
What parents handle
Day-to-day teaching & materials
Keeping simple monthly notes/artifacts (we give you templates)
Sharing info needed for transcripts (courses, credits, activities)
FAQs
Is this still “homeschooling”?
Legally, your child is a private-school student; practically, learning happens at home under your direction.
Do I need to withdraw from my current school?
Yes! After you enroll with Brightseed, you’ll send a short withdrawal notice to your prior school.
Do we still do district evaluations?
No, umbrella students don’t submit annual evaluations to the district.
Can we get transcripts?
Yes! Brightseed issues middle/high school transcripts.
Can we switch later?
Yes! Families can move between district homeschool, umbrella, or other options if they choose.
FLVS?
Some options are available for private-school students; availability varies, ask us and we’ll guide you.