VPK Program in West Melbourne, Florida
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.
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Now Registering VPK for the 2021-2022 School Year
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Morning and Afternoon classes available
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Reserve your spot now!
What is VPK?
VPK stands for the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program. If you live in Florida, and your child turns 4 four years of age by September 1, your child is eligible to participate in Florida’s FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) education program.
Benefits of early education and the VPK program
- The most important growth and development in the brain happens by the age of five.
- The early years are the learning years. A child’s ability to be attentive and to follow directions emerges in the early years. Structured early learning fosters these abilities for later success in school and in life.
- Pre-K prepares children to be ready for school. Children who participate in high-quality early childhood education programs develop better language skills, score higher in school-readiness tests and have better social skills and fewer behavioral problems once they enter school. They are also better prepared for Kindergarten, especially in the areas of pre-reading, pre-math and social skills.
- Pre-K promotes a love of learning in children. Pre-K enhances what a child learns at home and instills a love of life-long learning.
VPK FAQ’s
How much does it cost to enroll in a VPK program?
The VPK program is FREE for eligible children, regardless of family income. Some programs may charge additional fees for more hours and their rates vary by program.
Will the VPK program provide transportation?
No. Parents are responsible for the transportation of their children to and from the VPK program, though some providers may offer transportation services.
Where can my child attend VPK?
First, check with the child care facility your child currently attends. Chances are, your child can stay right where they are.
What will VPK offer my child?
This program focuses on early education and is designed to prepare your child to enter school. 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 instructor to 10 children. Class size will not exceed 18 children. With all of these benefits, your child receives a quality education to help them succeed in school and life.
How many hours will my child attend the VPK class?
You can choose a program for 540 instructional hours during the school year or 300 hours during the summer. Each provider has the opportunity to design a daily schedule to meet these required hours.
Will my child be required to attend class every day?
VPK is a scholastic program and attendance is required. If too many days are missed, your child may not be able to complete the program. Your child care provider will give you their attendance policy and the state guidelines for absences.
Contact us to enroll your child or to schedule a school visit.
For more information on the Early Learning Coalition, click here.
“Look at the child. The most important period of life is not the age of university studies but the period from birth to the age of six… for that is when intelligence itself, her greatest implement is being formed.” ~Maria Montessori