We’re excited to announce that Watermelon Swim now accepts scholarships through Step Up For Students at all of our locations!  

This partnership allows more Tampa Bay families the opportunity to enroll their children in swim lessons using scholarship funds, helping make life-saving swim skills accessible to all. 

What Is Step Up for Students? 

Step Up For Students administers several Florida scholarship programs funded through initiatives like the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and Family Empowerment Scholarship programs. These programs provide families with an Education Savings Account (ESA) that can be used for approved educational expenses, including swim lessons. 

At Watermelon Swim, we believe that learning to swim is an essential life skill that should be accessible to all children, and we are proud to be a Step Up partner! 

How to Apply for Step Up for Students 

Families interested in using scholarship funds must first apply directly through Step Up For Students. 

For the 2026–2027 school year, the priority application deadline is April 30, 2026, with applications continuing to be accepted through November 15, 2026. Families are encouraged to apply early to ensure the best chance of receiving funding. 

Parents or guardians can apply by visiting the Step Up For Students website. 

How to Enroll in Swim Lessons Using Step Up 

Once a family has been approved for a scholarship, enrolling in swim lessons is simple: 

  • Contact Watermelon Swim to create an account and register your student for a class. 
  • Complete enrollment by submitting a funds request to Watermelon Swim in your EMA account. You can request funds for as many months of lessons as you want! 
  • Be advised, your first month’s tuition may be prorated based on your start date. 
  • Make sure to include a funds request for the membership fee! 

Expanding Access to Water Safety 

This partnership allows us to reach more families and to continue our mission of creating a community of safer swimmers in Tampa Bay. 

If you’re interested in enrolling your child using a Step Up scholarship, contact Watermelon Swim today and our team will help guide you through the process. 

Together, we can make swim lessons and water safety accessible to all!