Voluntary PreKindergarten

A constitutional amendment passed by Florida’s voters in Nov. 2002 required a voluntary prekindergarten program for all four-year-old children by fall 2005. House Bill 1-A was signed into law by Governor Bush on January 2, 2005, creating a program designed to prepare four-year-olds for kindergarten and build the foundation for their educational success. The program allows a parent to enroll his or her eligible child (four years old by September 1 and residing in Florida) in a free VPK program. The program is voluntary for children and providers.

The first VPK classes began in the 2005-2006 school year. Public, private, and faith-based providers may be eligible to deliver the program depending upon whether they meet the minimum standards required in law.

The first summer VPK program was offered in 2006. If a child has not attended the school year program, they may participate in the summer VPK program the summer immediately before the school year for which the child is eligible for kindergarten.

Access the menu bar above, or click Here to see more information on VPK