The VPK program is a free prekindergarten program for 4 and 5-year-olds who reside in Florida. Participating children must be 4 years of age on or before September 1. Parents can enroll their child in the state’s free, voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) education program that year or wait until the following year when their child is 5. You will also need to show (upload):

  • Proof you live in Florida (current utility bill in your name, current photo ID, or your most recent pay stub)
  • Your child’s birth certificate or passport

Voluntary Prekindergarten or VPK gives children a jump start by preparing them for school and enhancing their pre-reading, pre-math, language, and social skills. By developing the skills children need to become strong readers and students at an early age, children are more likely to be successful in school. VPK classrooms offer high-quality programs that include high literacy standards, developmentally appropriate curricula, manageable class sizes, and qualified teachers. The school-year program includes 540 hours of instructional time and begins in August. The summer program consists of 300 instructional hours and can begin as early as May 1.

How can your child benefit from VPK?

There are a number of private child care and public-school providers offering VPK programs across Collier, Hendry, Lee, and Glades counties. For information in Collier call (239) 213-1136 and Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties call (239) 935-6100

 

Here's some fun reading for parents and children!