close

Signups for voluntary Pre-K program to begin

3 min read

Registration for Florida’s free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program is set to open soon.

On Sunday, the educational program – also known as VPK – will begin signing up children in Lee, Collier, Glades and Hendry counties. It is open to all 4-year-olds in the state, plus some 5-year-olds.

According to officials, the program prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.

“We know young children are learning and their minds are developing,” Susan Block, chief executive officer for the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida, said. “Having this preschool experience prior to entering kindergarten helps them to be prepared, to have social experiences with peers and to have exposure to pre-academics.”

She noted that the state has done follow-up research on the program.

“There is a benefit to participating,” Block said.

As its title states, the program is voluntary.

“It is available for all families, regardless of income,” she said.

Every Florida child who turns 4 years old by Sept. 1 of the current school year is eligible. If a child’s fourth birthday falls between Feb. 2 and Sept. 1, enrollment can be delayed until the child turns 5.

“Registration is simple,” Block said. “The state has made it very simple.”

Proof of the child’s Florida residency and his or her birth certificate will be required.

“It is a free program,” she said. “There’s no cost for VPK.”

Parents can choose from private child care centers or public schools. They also have the option of enrolling their child into the school-year program of 540 hours or the summer program of 300 hours.

Whether a fall or summer program, parents should enroll their child in time.

“The summer VPK program is more limited,” Block said.

She encouraged parents to do their research on potential providers.

“Choosing a program is a very personal thing,” Block said. “You want a program that aligns with your own values and the values that you want for your child.”

The chosen provider must be contracted with the coalition for the child to take part.

“But they can go anywhere to chose VPK,” she said.

The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida maintains a list of contracted providers. It serves the families of Lee County and is ready to provide assistance in navigating the enrollment process.

Parents of 4-year-olds with special needs have an option outside of the classroom setting, known as VPK Specialized Instructional Services or VPK-SIS, according to officials.

For more information on the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program and to start the enrollment process online, visit the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida’s website at: elcofswfl.org/.

After families sign up, they will receive a certificate to present to their chosen provider.

Those without Internet access can contact the coalition at 239-935-6100 or stop by the office.

The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida is at 2675 Winkler Ave., Suite 300, Fort Myers.