Gardiner Scholarship 2024 Apply Online & Application Form | Gardiner Scholarship Check Beneficiary Category & Covered Disabilities | Gardiner Scholarship Check Selection & Implementation Procedure | Gardiner Scholarship Check Benefits & Features | Gardiner Scholarship Check Eligibility & All Details |

The Gardiner Scholarship provides funding that parents can use to pay for a wide range of educational services and supports. These include tuition and fees for private schools, tutoring, therapies, specialized curriculum materials, assistive technology, and more. The scholarship funds can also be used for approved educational savings accounts, allowing parents to save for future educational expenses.

This article will provide all information about the Gardiner Scholarship 2024 like purpose, Eligibility Criteria, Benefits, Features, important documents, etc. Apart from this, we will share the process to apply online for this scholarship. To get complete information about this scholarship, read this article till the end.

Gardiner Scholarship 2024

The Gardiner Scholarship is a program that aims to provide educational opportunities for students with unique abilities in the state of Florida. Established in 2014, this scholarship program is designed to support families in accessing the educational resources and services that best meet the individual needs of their children. By adhering to key guidelines, families can make the most of the Gardiner Scholarship program and ensure that their children receive the educational support they need to thrive.

The Gardiner Scholarship, also known as the Gardiner Scholarship Program or the Personal Learning Scholarship Account (PLSA) program, is a state-funded scholarship program in Florida, United States. It is designed to provide educational opportunities for students with certain special needs, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program aims to empower parents to make personalized educational choices for their children, tailoring their education to meet their unique needs and abilities.

Highlights of Gardiner Scholarship 2024

The highlights of this scholarship are as follows:- 

Objectives of Gardiner Scholarship 2024

The Gardiner Scholarship program has several key objectives. Firstly, it empowers parents to make informed decisions about their child’s education by providing them with financial assistance. This allows parents to choose from a wide range of educational options, including private schools, home education programs, and specialized services. Secondly, the program seeks to promote educational equity by ensuring that students with unique abilities have access to the same educational opportunities as their peers. By providing funding for necessary educational services and resources, the program helps level the playing field for these students.

Furthermore, the Gardiner Scholarship program aims to foster a supportive and inclusive educational environment. It recognizes that each student has unique strengths and challenges, and encourages schools and service providers to tailor their programs to meet the specific needs of each student. By promoting personalized learning experiences, the program helps students with unique abilities reach their full potential. Additionally, the program aims to enhance parental involvement in their child’s education, recognizing that parents are the best advocates for their children and play a crucial role in their academic success.

Beneficiary Category

The Gardiner Scholarship is available to students with unique abilities who meet certain eligibility criteria. This includes students with disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, spina bifida, and other conditions that require special education services. The program is open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as students who are enrolled in a pre-kindergarten program. It is important to note that eligibility for the scholarship is determined by the Florida Department of Education.

Covered Disabilities

The list of covered disabilities is as follows:-

• Anaphylaxis
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Being a high-risk child
• Cerebral Palsy
• Down syndrome
• Emotional or a behavioral disability
• Hearing impairment, including deafness
• Hospital or homebound
• Identification as dual sensory impaired
• Intellectual disability
• Language impairment
• Muscular dystrophy
• Orthopedic impairment
• Other health impairment
• Phelan-McDermid syndrome
• Prader-Willi syndrome
• Rare diseases
• Specific learning disability
• Speech impairment
• Spina bifida
• Traumatic brain injury
• Visual impairment, including blindness
• Williams syndrome

Application Enrollment Last Dates

The Gardiner Scholarship has specific enrollment periods during which families can submit their applications. The exact dates may vary each year, so it is important to check the program’s official website for the most up-to-date information. It is recommended to apply as early as possible to ensure timely processing.

Selection Procedure

The selection of recipients for the Gardiner Scholarship is based on a review of the submitted applications. The Florida Department of Education evaluates the applications and determines eligibility based on the established criteria. It is important to provide accurate and complete information in the application to increase the chances of being selected for the scholarship.

Implementation Procedure

Once a student is awarded the Gardiner Scholarship, the funds can be used to cover a variety of educational expenses. This includes tuition fees, textbooks, educational materials, therapies, specialized services, and technology devices that support the student’s learning. The scholarship funds are typically disbursed directly to the chosen educational institution or service provider on behalf of the student.

Supervision Body

The Gardiner Scholarship program is administered by the Florida Department of Education. The department oversees the implementation of the program and ensures that the funds are used appropriately. They provide guidance and support to families, schools, and service providers to ensure the smooth operation of the scholarship program.

Key Guidelines

The key guidelines of this scholarship are as follows:-

• Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Florida Department of Education.
• Applications should be submitted during the designated enrollment periods.
• Accurate and complete information should be provided in the application.
• The scholarship funds can only be used for eligible educational expenses.
• Parents have the freedom to choose the educational services and resources that best meet their child’s needs.
• Parents are encouraged to actively participate in their child’s education and advocate for their needs.
• Students must comply with the attendance and academic progress requirements set by their chosen educational institution.
• Parents are responsible for monitoring the appropriate use of the scholarship funds.
• Changes in enrollment or educational services should be reported to the Florida Department of Education.
• Parents should keep records of expenses and submit any required documentation as requested by the department.

Gardiner Scholarship Coverage

This scholarship may cover the below-mentioned allowances:-

• Tuition Fees
• Specialized Therapies and Services
• Instructional Material
• Curriculum
• Postsecondary Education

Individualized Learning

One of the key advantages of the Gardiner Scholarship is the opportunity for individualized learning. Students with unique abilities often require personalized instruction and support to reach their full potential. With this scholarship, parents have the freedom to choose educational options that best meet their child’s specific needs, whether it’s a traditional school, virtual learning, or specialized programs.

Specialized Services

The Gardiner Scholarship also provides access to specialized services that cater to the unique abilities of students. These services may include therapies, assistive technology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and more. By receiving these specialized services, students can overcome challenges and develop the skills necessary for academic success.

Access to Quality Programs

Through the Gardiner Scholarship, students have access to a wide range of quality educational programs. This includes private schools, virtual schools, homeschooling resources, and approved providers. By having the ability to choose from these options, parents can ensure that their child receives the best education possible.

Increased Parental Involvement

This scholarship empowers parents to take an active role in their child’s education. With the freedom to choose the most suitable educational setting, parents can become more involved in their child’s learning journey. This increased parental involvement has been shown to have a positive impact on academic outcomes and overall student well-being.

Flexibility in Curriculum

Another benefit of the Gardiner Scholarship is the flexibility it provides in curriculum choices. Parents can tailor the curriculum to suit their child’s individual learning style, interests, and goals. This flexibility allows students to explore subjects in-depth, focus on areas of strength, and receive additional support in areas of difficulty.

Improved Socialization Opportunities

Contrary to common misconceptions, students with unique abilities can benefit from socialization opportunities. The Gardiner Scholarship enables parents to choose educational settings that foster social interaction and inclusion. This may include inclusive classrooms, extracurricular activities, and community programs. By participating in these activities, students can develop social skills, build friendships, and feel a sense of belonging.

Empowerment for Students

The Gardiner Scholarship empowers students to take control of their education. By being involved in the decision-making process, students gain a sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning. This empowerment fosters independence, self-advocacy, and a lifelong love for learning.

Financial Relief

For many families, the financial burden of providing specialized education and support can be overwhelming. The Gardiner Scholarship offers financial relief by covering tuition, fees, and approved educational expenses. This allows families to focus on their child’s educational needs without the added stress of financial constraints.

Long-Term Impact

The Gardiner Scholarship has a long-term impact on the lives of students with unique abilities. By receiving a quality education that meets their individual needs, these students are better equipped for future success. They have the opportunity to pursue higher education, gain meaningful employment, and contribute to society in a meaningful way.

Benefits of Gardiner Scholarship 2024

The benefits of this scholarship are as follows:-

• The Gardiner Scholarship provides families with the opportunity to choose the educational setting that best meets the needs of their child. Whether it’s a private school, virtual school, or homeschooling, parents have the freedom to select the most suitable option.
• The scholarship allows for individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s unique abilities and learning style. This personalized approach enhances the educational experience and helps students reach their full potential.
• Students with special needs often require additional services and support. The Gardiner Scholarship covers a wide range of specialized services, including therapy, tutoring, and assistive technology, ensuring that every child receives the necessary resources to succeed.
• With the Gardiner Scholarship, families gain access to a variety of high-quality educational programs that may have otherwise been financially out of reach. This opens up opportunities for students to participate in enrichment activities and advanced courses.
• Parents play a crucial role in their child’s education, and the Gardiner Scholarship encourages and supports increased parental involvement. This involvement fosters a stronger partnership between parents and educators, leading to better outcomes for students.
• One of the key benefits of the Gardiner Scholarship is the flexibility it offers in choosing and adapting the curriculum. This allows parents to tailor the educational content to align with their child’s interests, strengths, and goals.
• The scholarship provides opportunities for students to interact with peers in various educational settings, promoting socialization and building important social skills. This helps students develop relationships and form connections with others.
• The Gardiner Scholarship empowers students with special needs by giving them the freedom to take control of their education. It allows them to actively participate in their learning journey and make choices that align with their individual needs and aspirations.
• For families of students with special needs, the financial burden can be significant. The Gardiner Scholarship provides much-needed financial relief, helping families access the educational resources and services their child requires without straining their budget.
• The benefits of the Gardiner Scholarship extend beyond the immediate educational experience. By receiving a tailored education and gaining essential skills, students are better equipped for future success in higher education, employment, and independent living.

Features Of Gardiner Scholarship 2024

The features of this scholarship are as follows:-

• The Gardiner Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible students, helping to cover the costs of tuition, books, therapies, and other educational expenses.
• Students who receive the Gardiner Scholarship can have individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to their specific needs. These plans outline the goals, accommodations, and support services necessary for the student’s success.
• The Gardiner Scholarship allows families to choose from a variety of educational options, including public, private, and specialized schools, as well as homeschooling and online programs.
• The scholarship covers the costs of various therapies and services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioural therapy.
• Students can receive funding for assistive technology devices and software that enhance their learning experience and help them overcome challenges.
• The Gardiner Scholarship provides support for students transitioning from high school to post-secondary education or the workforce. This includes vocational training, career counselling, and job placement assistance.
• Families have the flexibility to customize their child’s education, choosing the programs, services, and therapies that best meet their needs and preferences.
• The Gardiner Scholarship recognizes the importance of parental involvement in a child’s education. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in decision-making and collaborate with educators.
• Participating schools and service providers must meet certain quality standards and undergo regular evaluations to ensure the delivery of high-quality education and services.
• The Gardiner Scholarship program offers support networks and resources for families, including workshops, training sessions, and access to a community of parents and professionals.

Gardiner Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online for this scholarship:- 

• He or she must be a resident of Florida state.
• The student must belong to the disabled category such as: –
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Being a high-risk child
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Down syndrome
  • Emotional or a behavioral disability
  • Hearing impairment, including deafness
  • Hospital or homebound
  • Identification as dual sensory impaired
  • Intellectual disability
  • Language impairment
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Orthopedic impairment
  • Other health impairment
  • Phelan-McDermid syndrome
  • Prader-Willi syndrome
  • Rare diseases
  • Specific learning disability
  • Speech impairment
  • Spina bifida
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Visual impairment, including blindness
  • Williams syndrome
• The age limit of the student must be 3 to 22 years.
• The student must have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) from a school district in Florida.

Important Documents 

Some of the important documents required to apply online for this scholarship are as follows:-

• Scholarship Application Form
• Recommendation Letters
• CV or Resume
• Disability Certificate
• Individual Education Plan (IEP)
• Academic Transcripts
• Two referee reports
• Reference letters
• Passport Copy
• Language Proficiency Certificates

Gardiner Scholarship Apply Online 2024

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points for applying online:-

• Visit and open the Official Website.

• Now you will be able to see the homepage.
• On the homepage, click on the Apply Today button.

• Various login options will be displayed on the screen.
• Look under the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) option.
• Click on the Login To Your Account link.

• A new page will be displayed on the screen.
• Fill in the asked details to create a new account such as:-
  • Primary 
  • Parent 
  • First Name
  • Primary Parent 
  • Last Name
  • Email Address
  • Confirm Email Address
  • Password
  • Confirm Password
  • Security Question
  • Security Answer
  • Scholarship Year
• Then, click on the asked question answer.
• Now click on the Create New User button.

Getting Contact Details

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to get contact details

• The applicant will need first to visit the official website.
• Now you will get land on the homepage.
• Look at the top right-hand side of the screen.
• Click on the Contact.

• The contact details will be displayed on your screen.

Contact Information

In case of any queries and questions regarding the Gardiner Scholarship, the applicants can contact the below-mentioned office address, phone no, and email ID to redress their doubts:-

• Office Address:-
  • P.O. Box 54429,
  • Jacksonville,
  • FL 32245-4367
• Phone No:- 1-877-735-7837
• Email ID:- [email protected]

Gardiner Scholarship: Top 15 FAQs

Are you looking for information about the Gardiner Scholarship program? Look no further! In this article, we will address the top 15 frequently asked questions regarding the Gardiner Scholarship, a valuable resource for families with special needs children in Florida.

What is the Gardiner Scholarship?

The Gardiner Scholarship is a state-funded program that provides eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to attend a participating private school or use other approved services that best meet their individual needs.

Who is eligible for the Gardiner Scholarship?

Students who are Florida residents and are between the ages of 3 and 22 years old with one of the following disabilities may be eligible for the Gardiner Scholarship: autism spectrum disorder, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Spina Bifida, Williams syndrome, intellectual disability, rare diseases as defined by the National Organization for Rare Disorders, or a kindergartner who is deemed “high-risk” due to developmental delays.

How do I apply for the Gardiner Scholarship?

To apply for the Gardiner Scholarship, parents or legal guardians must submit an online application through the Step Up For Students website. The application requires documentation of the child’s eligibility as well as other supporting documents.

How much money is awarded through the Gardiner Scholarship?

The amount awarded through the Gardiner Scholarship varies depending on the child’s grade level and the specific needs outlined in their individual education plan (IEP). The scholarship can cover tuition, fees, textbooks, tutoring services, and other approved expenses.

Can the Gardiner Scholarship funds be used for therapy services?

Yes, the Gardiner Scholarship funds can be used for a variety of therapy services, including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and more.

Are there any deadlines for applying to the Gardiner Scholarship?

The Gardiner Scholarship application period typically opens in the spring and has specific deadlines for submission. It is essential to check the Step Up For Students website for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines.

How long does the Gardiner Scholarship last?

The Gardiner Scholarship is awarded annually and is renewable as long as the student meets the eligibility requirements each year.

Can the Gardiner Scholarship funds be used for homeschooling?

Yes, the Gardiner Scholarship funds can be used for homeschooling expenses, such as curriculum materials, educational resources, and tutoring services.

Are there any restrictions on how the Gardiner Scholarship funds can be used?

The Gardiner Scholarship funds must be used for approved educational purposes outlined in the scholarship guidelines. Funds cannot be used for non-educational expenses, such as clothing or entertainment.

Do students with the Gardiner Scholarship have to take standardized tests?

Students with the Gardiner Scholarship are not required to take standardized tests. However, some participating private schools may have their assessment requirements.

Can students with the Gardiner Scholarship participate in extracurricular activities?

Yes, students with the Gardiner Scholarship can participate in extracurricular activities at their chosen school or educational program.

Are there income requirements to qualify for the Gardiner Scholarship?

There are no income requirements to qualify for the Gardiner Scholarship. Eligibility is based solely on the child’s disability and meeting the other criteria outlined in the application process.

What is the impact of the Gardiner Scholarship on students with disabilities?

The Gardiner Scholarship has been shown to have a positive impact on students with disabilities, providing them with access to tailored educational services that meet their unique needs and helping them reach their full academic potential.

How can parents learn more about the Gardiner Scholarship program?

Parents interested in learning more about the Gardiner Scholarship program can visit the Step Up For Students website for comprehensive information, resources, and application details.