Today’s post is sponsored by Florida Prepaid. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Friday was a busy day for us. In addition to a huge mediation at work, getting Greenleigh to dance class in the evening, and preparing for a Girl Scout event on Saturday, we had an early morning parent teacher conference with Greenleigh’s teacher. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get a little nervous before a meeting with any of their teachers. I know my kids are smart, but I just never know what their teachers are going to say… Thankfully, our conference went very well. Greenleigh’s excelling in math, reading at least 6 months ahead of her grade level, and extremely respectful of hear teacher. We left very proud parents.
These parent teacher conferences also tend to remind me about what the future holds – middle school, high school, and, eventually, college. Sure, she’s only in elementary school now, but time is flying and it never hurts to start preparing for the future. And now is the perfect time to start planning for the future because it’s Florida Prepaid’s Open Enrollment!
While Florida Prepaid College Plans are no doubt the best and most affordable way to plan for your child’s future, there’s only one time of year that you can apply for a plan – right now! And with several plans to choose from (1 year, 2 year, 2 + 2, and 4 year) there’s sure to be one for every budget, and even a dorm plan add-on so your child can live on campus. 
My personal favorite of the Florida Prepaid College Plans is the 4 Year University Plan, which will allow your child to start out and complete one of Florida’s 12 prestigious state universities. Should your child decide to start out at a college, instead of a university, they can use the excess money towards a post secondary degree or get the remaining money back. And of course, like all of the Florida Prepaid Plans, you’re never restricted to schools in the state of Florida; the amount covered by your child’s prepaid plan can be applied to any school nationwide! That’s flexibility!
Still on the fence? Here are three simple reasons to start saving for your child’s college experience now:
Setting aside as little as $500 for your child’s education makes them more likely to enroll. Actually, three times more likely to enroll. People often think it takes a lot of money saved – and while it’s true, the more the better – just a little can help spur them to apply and accept an offer.
Designating $500 towards college makes a child more likely to graduate. Yep. True. Just $500 can make them 4.5 times more likely to graduate. 
Bachelor’s degree holders earn more. Statistics show that those holding bachelors’ degrees earn about $24,000 more per year than those who only have a high school diploma. Why wouldn’t you want to set your child up for that kind of success?
So what are you waiting for? Open enrollment is NOW! If you’re already familiar with Florida Prepaid or need some help getting started, be sure to check out their interactive site here. Remember, starting is believing!
