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School Readiness

What is the School Readiness (SR) Program?

The SR program offers child care assistance to eligible families with children from birth to age 12. This support allows parents to work or attend school while ensuring their children receive early learning opportunities. Families contribute to the cost of care based on income, household size, and other qualifying factors.

Have you heard about the SR Plus Program? Learn More HERE!

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Is my Family Eligible for Assistance?

Do You Qualify for Child Care Assistance?

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You may be eligible if you meet the following requirements:

  • Employed at least 20 hours per week, a student enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, or have a documented disability. 

  • Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. 

  • Resident within our service area.

 

See household size and income level chart below for guidance:
 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What documents can I use to prove Florida residency?
    To verify Florida residency, you must submit one of the following: A utility bill (electric, gas, water), cable, internet, or phone bill dated within the past 12 months A pay stub dated within the past 12 months A residential rental agreement or rent receipt dated within the past 12 months A government-issued document (e.g., Florida driver’s license, state ID, or property tax bill with homestead exemption) Military orders showing a parent is assigned to duty in Florida during the VPK program A federal employment order showing a parent is assigned to work in Florida during the VPK program A Florida Migrant Education Program Certificate of Eligibility (COE) A notarized affidavit of physical address with a letter from the landlord or property owner confirming the child lives at that address (or use ELPOP 400.12 with Section C completed) For homeless children, documentation such as a letter from a shelter, referral, student residency form, or a notarized affidavit from the parent confirming Florida residency will be accepted Any questions call us at 352-563-9939 X. 0
  • What program options are available?
    Parents can choose from Private Centers and Schools, Public Schools, Family Child Care Homes and Specialized Instructional Services Providers. Parents can select from one of several program options: VPK School Year Program (540 Instructional Hours): Class sizes are not to exceed 11 students with a single lead instructor or up to 20 students with a lead instructor and an assistant. Instructors must have a minimum of a Florida Child Care Professional Credential. Summer VPK Program: Classes are not to exceed 12 students with a single lead instructor. Instructors must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Specialized Instructional Services Program (Hours Vary Based on Services): VPK Specialized Instructional Services (SIS) is a program option for VPK-age children with current Individual Educational Plans (IEPs). This option allows parents to chooise additional therapy services consistent with the child's IEP in lieu of attending VPK in a traditional classroom setting.
  • What documents can I use to prove my child's age?
    You must provide one of the following documents to verify your child’s age: A certified or original birth record. A certified or original baptism certificate or religious birth record with a notarized affidavit from the parent. A life insurance policy for the child that’s at least 2 years old. A passport or certificate of arrival showing the child’s birth date. An immunization record signed by a health officer or licensed physician. A valid military dependent ID or government-issued ID with the child’s birth date. If none of the above are available, a notarized affidavit of the child’s age along with a signed letter from a health officer or physician on official letterhead may be accepted. Any questions call us at 352-563-9939 X. 0
  • Can my child reenroll in VPK if they withdraw or don’t finish the program?
    Yes, a child may be eligible to reenroll in VPK if they withdraw before completing 70% of the program hours or funding. Reenrollment can happen for Good Cause (such as moving or switching providers) or Extreme Hardship (such as needing to transfer from a school-year to a summer program). To reenroll, parents must complete the VPK Reenrollment Application (Form OEL-VPK 05) through the Family Portal. Some situations may require supporting documentation. Children who turned 4 between February 2 and September 1 and did not complete VPK or enter kindergarten may also be eligible to reenroll the following year. For help with reenrollment or submitting forms, contact us at 352-563-9939.
  • What are the benefits of attending VPK?
    Children who complete VPK: - Are more prepared for Kindergarten. - Have better school attendance rates. - Develop lifelong social skills. - Are more likely to advance to the next grade. - Are more likely to graduate high school.
  • When does VPK registration open for the upcoming school year?
    VPK registration opens every year on January 1st. For example, registration for the 2025–2026 school year began on January 1, 2025.
  • What Happens Once I am on the Waitlist?
    When funding becomes available, families are moved to the SR placement phase based on funding availability, priority group and the date placed on the SR waitlist. Once funding becomes available, you will receive a funding notification email. To find out the status of your application call 352-601-7849.
  • How do I apply?
    Step 1: Create an account on the [Family Portal]. Step 2: Submit an initial application to join the SR Waitlist and upload all required documents. Step 3: Once your application is approved, you are officially on the waitlist.
  • Can my copayment for child care be waived?
    Yes. If your family is at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level and facing certain hardships—like homelessness, incarceration, foster care, or other qualifying situations—you may be eligible for a temporary copayment waiver. See our copayment waiver policy below:
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