What is VPK?
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) is a free program in Florida for all 4-year-olds. It helps children build essential skills like reading, math, and social interaction, preparing them for kindergarten.
Who Can Apply?
Age Requirement: Your child must turn 4 years old on or before September 1 of the program year.
Residency: Must live in Florida.
Delayed VPK Enrollment: Your child can attend VPK as a 5-year-old if they have never attended VPK or kindergarten before.
When to Apply for VPK in Sarasota, FL
Start Date: Applications open on January 1 of the year your child turns 4.
Ongoing Enrollment: You can apply for VPK and enroll in a VPK program anytime during the program year.
How to Apply:
Go to elcsarasota.org and click on the VPK box in the middle of the homepage
After being redirected to Florida’s Division of Early Learning website, you will see the Family Portal page. This is where you will begin your VPK application.
Create an Account. Please use an email you have access to and check often
Complete the Application. Provide your child’s information and upload the required documents (proof of age and residency).
Once approved by the ELC, you’ll get a “Certificate of Eligibility” Voucher
Download & print this voucher and bring it to your chosen VPK provider.
If you need a custom list of VPK sites or full list of all area VPK providers, our Childcare Resource and Referral Team can provide that to you!
VPK Providers in Sarasota, Nokomis, North Port, Newtown, Venice, Lakewood Ranch and surrounding regions include:
• Private Childcare Centers
• Public Schools
• Faith-Based Centers
• Head Start Programs
• Licensed Family Childcare Homes
Need Help?
For assistance in Sarasota County, contact our Childcare Resource & Referral (CCR&R) team at 941-954-4830 x106 or email us at: info@elcsarasota.org
Don’t Wait!
You can still enroll for the remaining months of the 2024-2025 school year. Or, plan ahead and pre-enroll your child for the 2025-2026 year.
VPK can give your child a strong start to kindergarten a solid foundation for life!
About the Author : elcuser
