The Florida Voluntary Pre-kindergarten Education Program, also known as VPK, is a remarkable opportunity for 4 and 5-year-olds residing in Florida. This FREE pre-kindergarten program gives children a jump start by preparing them for school and enhancing their pre-reading, pre-math, language, and social skills. At Otter Learning, we believe that by developing these essential skills at an early age, children are more likely to succeed in school and beyond.

 

Our VPK classrooms at Otter Learning offer high-quality programs that prioritize high literacy standards, developmentally appropriate curricula, manageable class sizes, and qualified teachers. The school-year program encompasses 540 hours of instructional time and starts in August, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for your child.

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Find a Location Near You and enroll your child in our exceptional Georgia Pre-K program.

• Orlando Area

• Tampa Area

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Registration for our VPK program begins in March and continues through mid-July. To secure a spot for your child, parents must bring their completed Early Learning Coalition Registration Form and provide proof of Florida residency. Children must be 4 years old on or before September 1 and planning to enter K-5 the following year. Register your child for VPK through your county's Early Learning Coalition here.

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Please note that space is limited, and we encourage you to register early to secure your child's spot.

 

Now, let's answer some common questions about Florida's VPK Program:

1. What is Florida's VPK Program? Florida's VPK Program is a state-funded educational program designed to build a strong educational foundation and readiness for Kindergarten. It typically follows the school calendar and provides 540 hours of educational instruction. At Otter Learning, our VPK program hours vary between 3 and 4 hours per day, depending on location.

2. Is My Child Eligible for Florida's VPK Program? Children who are four years old by September 1 of the current school year and Florida residents are eligible to attend. Enrollment in the Florida VPK program is entirely voluntary, and there are no income eligibility requirements.

3. When should I register? To register for Florida's VPK Program, visit your county's Early Learning Coalition and schedule an appointment. Once approved and granted a voucher, you can enroll your child at Otter Learning. Search for locations and check the number of available slots above.

 

Remember, due to the program's popularity, space is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Classrooms tend to fill up quickly before the start of the school year, so early registration is crucial. If your desired location has no available space, we encourage you to still register as openings may become available throughout the year.

1. What to Bring for Registration? To register for Pre-K, you'll need proof that your child is age-eligible and a Florida resident. Acceptable proof-of-age documents include a birth certificate, passport, hospital record of live birth, green card, pink card, or Federal I-94 card. Proof of residence can be shown through a current lease agreement or a recent utility bill with your name and address. Additionally, all children enrolled in Florida's VPK Program must provide their shot record and physical to the director at Otter Learning within 2 weeks of enrollment.

2. Florida VPK Classroom Teachers Each Florida VPK classroom at Otter Learning adheres to a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring individualized attention and support. Our teachers have passed both state and federal background checks and hold a minimum of Florida Child Care Professional Credentials.

3. Florida VPK Program Learning Curriculum Our VPK curriculum at Otter Learning has undergone review and approval by the Early Learning Coalition. It incorporates various activities throughout the day, including large group interactions, small group sessions, outdoor play, center time, story time, phonological awareness exercises, and music and movement.

4. Full-Day Care Options For families needing care beyond the 3-4 hours provided in the VPK program, we offer an extended day program with wrap-around care. Parents enrolled in this program can access care from open until close, based on the operating hours of their chosen location. Pricing varies by location, so please inquire with your director during your tour for more information.

 

We are excited to be a part of your child's educational journey at Otter Learning and to provide them with a strong foundation for success. Register your child for our Free Florida VPK Program today, and let's embark on a remarkable learning adventure together!