Manny Diaz, Jr. Commissioner, Florida Department of Education | Florida Department of Education
Florida State Parks and the Florida Prepaid College Savings Program have joined forces to offer families a chance to invest in their children's education while exploring Florida's natural attractions. This collaboration, now in its fourth year, aims to show how present-day exploration can inspire lifelong learning.
Until June 30, 2025, families can participate in a contest to win one of ten prize packages. Each package includes a $1,000 scholarship for a Florida 529 Savings Plan, a Family Annual Pass to Florida State Parks, and a Junior Ranger gift pack featuring an inflatable stand-up paddleboard.
Both organizations share the goal of empowering young Floridians through knowledge and experience. Whether through the Junior Ranger Program or planning for college with a Florida 529 Savings Plan, they aim to connect recreation with education meaningfully.
“Florida State Parks play a role in inspiring curiosity, stewardship and a love of Florida’s natural resources,” said Alexis A. Lambert, Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. “Partnering with Florida Prepaid allows us to support families in connecting that sense of wonder with meaningful educational opportunities for the future.”
With guided programs led by rangers and self-paced exploration options at visitor centers or online as Virtual Junior Rangers, all 175 state parks in Florida offer educational opportunities suitable for children of varying ages and abilities.
John D. Rood, Chairman of the Florida Prepaid College Board, emphasized the importance of outdoor learning: “Summer is the ideal time for families to focus on outdoor learning and exploration that is such an important part of a child’s preparation for postsecondary education.” He highlighted this partnership as evidence of the state's commitment to active learning.
The Morningstar medal-winning Florida 529 Savings Plan offers flexible saving options exclusively for residents. Families can make contributions starting at $25 per month. Currently, over 154,000 active plans exist across the state with savings exceeding $1.3 billion.
For more information about the Junior Ranger Program or entering the contest, visit FloridaStateParks.org/FloridaPrepaid.
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