What is Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten?
A constitutional amendment passed by Florida's voters in November 2002 required a voluntary pre-kindergarten program for all four-year-old children by fall 2005. House Bill 1-A was signed into law by Governor Bush on January 2, 2005, creating a program designed to prepare four-year-olds for kindergarten and build the foundation for their educational success. The program allows a parent to enroll his or her eligible child (four years old by September 1 and residing in Florida) in a free VPK program. The program is voluntary for children and providers.
Highlights
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VPK began in the fall of school year 2005.
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High quality educational program with an early literacy focus.
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FREE for all children 4-years-old by September 1, who reside in Florida.
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No registration fee.
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Both private & public providers will participate.
VPK Program Options
May participate in either:
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School Year Program - 540 instructional hours, OR
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Summer Program - 300 instructional hours; children may participate in the VPK program in the summer immediately before the school year in which the child is age eligible for kindergarten.
***If the child is age-eligible for kindergarten, they are no longer eligible for VPK.***
Providers
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All VPK providers must meet high standards required by Florida Law.
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Parents have the option of choosing the provider that meets their own family's needs.
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Options for parents include: public schools, private child care centers, and licensed family child care homes.
Instructors
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All VPK instructors must meet high standards required by Florida Law.
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Parents have the option of choosing the provider that meets their own family's needs.
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Options for parents include: public schools, private child care centers and licensed family child care homes.
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All VPK instructors must have a minimum of a Child Development Associate for the school year program or a Bachelor's Degree for the summer program.
- Ratios are 1 credentialed instructor per 11 children.
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Class size will not exceed 20 children.
Curriculum
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Must be developmentally appropriate.
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Focus on early literacy skills.
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Prepare the child to be ready for kindergarten based on standards adopted by the State Board of Education.
Transportation
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Parents are responsible for their children's transportation.
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VPK brochures
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VPK Parent Handbook: This handbook provides further information about the VPK program, as well as your Rights & Responsibilities as a VPK parent.
It's Ok to Play in VPK: This brochure will tell you about all the things your child should be learning while in the VPK program.
ECS VPK Parent Manual (click here)
Fact Sheet for Families – What Families of Preschool Children with Special Needs Should Know about the
Summer Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Education Program
click here for English & click here for Spanish
State of Florida's VPK Website
To speak with a VPK Specialist, call us today!
Toll Free 1-800-745-4836
