About Us

Our Values

Children deserve physically and emotionally safe environments, regardless of whether they’re learning at school, in a co-op, microschool,
or in an enrichment program.

All children and families—regardless of background, ability, or learning style—deserve access to quality educational opportunities.

Families have the right to clear, unbiased information about the programs they trust with their children.

Parents and providers are partners. We create bridges, not barriers.

We prioritize programs that deliver genuine educational value through hands-on, intentional teaching.

We support providers who are always striving to improve and families who want to make informed, empowered choices.

Safety First

Transparency

Authentic Learning Experiences

Equity & Inclusion

Collaboration

Growth Mindset

Our Vision

To become the most trusted symbol of quality and safety for non-traditional education programs nationwide.
We imagine a future where families can easily find programs that are not only safe and educational—but also aligned with their child’s values, passions, and learning style.

Our Mission

To empower families by providing transparent and purpose-driven verification for home education, tutoring, and enrichment programs.
ParentApproved.org exists so that families can make confident choices when selecting instructional programs. Our mission is to spotlight providers who demonstrate real care, purpose, and accountability.

We Believe

• WE BELIEVE every child deserves safe, inspiring, and purposeful learning experiences

• WE BELIEVE parents deserve clear, unbiased information to make confident choices.

• WE BELIEVE quality can be demonstrated - not assumed.

ParentApproved.org exists to bring trust, transparency, and higher standards to Florida’s evolving education landscape.

Why We Exist

ParentApproved.org was created to help families feel confident in choosing enrichment programs, tutoring services, and learning providers that prioritize safety, purpose, and quality.

While traditional schools must meet strict standards, most Step Up providers—such as microschools, tutoring centers, and extracurricular programs—are not required to complete background checks, submit safety plans, or follow academic benchmarks.

We believe families deserve transparency when trusting someone with their child's education and well-being.

Who We Are

Our review and advisory board includes:

• Homeschooling parents

• Educational consultants

• Subject matter experts

• Wellness and safety advisors

We’re a nonprofit organization that operates independently of Step Up for Students. We don’t receive commissions or fees from providers based on placement.

Our only goal is to help families and providers find the best fit, with integrity.

What Parents Told Us

We listened to dozens of parents who expressed concern, confusion, and even disappointment about some of the programs available.

Many parents shared that websites and flyers looked appealing, but the actual program experience didn’t match. Some felt misled, while others simply wished there was an easier way to compare safety and quality standards.

These honest conversations helped shape the criteria behind our badges.

What Providers Told Us

We also heard from providers who expressed how challenging it can be to stand out in a crowded landscape.

Many offer thoughtful, hands-on learning experiences and genuinely care about their students—but struggle to convey their program’s true value to families.

Our badge system allows providers to earn recognition for what they already do well—whether it’s nature-based education, STEM innovation, or creative arts—and clearly show families that they’re purpose-driven, not just filler activities.

What Makes Us Different

ParentApproved.org isn’t just a listing site. Our review process is built around meaningful criteria, not marketing claims. Each badge is carefully designed to reflect a program’s core mission, from Academic Excellence to Mindfulness & Wellness.

Providers must submit:

• A detailed application specific to the badge

• Documentation and sample curriculum

• Instructor qualifications

• Photos and examples of learning in action

Our goal is to make it easy for families to understand what a program actually offers, beyond what can be seen on a website or social media.

What's Next

We’re just getting started!

Our next steps include expanding the provider directory and badge library, launching a parent feedback system, and publishing verified provider directories by region.

We invite you to follow our journey, share your feedback, and help raise the standard of out-of-school learning in Florida and beyond.

Contact Us

We are here to assist you.

Contact us with questions about our verification process or to confirm a provider’s badge status.