Parents of young children should take note: Applications for various early childhood education programs are now open throughout Polk County. This year, Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) has introduced the application process earlier than ever, starting on January 27, 2025. This is significant, as previous years did not see early childhood applications open until March.
Lori Allen, the Senior Director of Foundational Learning at PCPS, explained the reasoning behind this shift. "Usually, it’s a mad rush… This is working much besser," she stated, indicating the need to streamline the application process due to the high demand for these programs.
The stakes are high: last year, only 44% of the 7,815 students entering kindergarten were deemed 'kindergarten ready' based on early assessments. The importance of early childhood education cannot be overlooked. High-quality preschool programs often lead to enhanced language and social skills and fewer behavioral issues as children transition to formal schooling. According to Fred Heid, PCPS Superintendent, "There isn’t a beter way to create a foundation for lifelong success than getting children involved in high-quality preschool programs."
PCPS does not have a fixed closing date for applications, opting instead for multiple rounds of selection until all available seats are filled. For the best chance of securing their preferred school, parents are encouraged to apply before the end of March, marking the priority window for the first round of selections, which will occur in April with acceptance letters going out likely by May.
While it can seem overwhelming, Allen reassured parents, saying, "Just because you don’t get int the first round doesn’t mean you’re not getting in." Nonetheless, it’s worth noting spaces are limited. Currently, PCPS has over 2,500 students enrolled in its early childhood programs, but 1,200 applicants remain waitlisted this year.
For parents considering alternatives, there are various private childcare centers, charter schools, Montessori schools, and faith-based institutions also offering voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) programs. They each have distinct applications and deadlines, so contacting individual schools to verify VPK certificate acceptance is recommended.
PCPS provides one application for its four early childhood programs. District staff then sorts through the applications, determining eligibility based on income and other criteria like zoning preferences for elementary schools. Depending on the funding each program receives, some may offer free full-day preschool, whereas others provide half-day services, necessitating additional fees for wraparound care.
Among these options are the federally funded Head Start program aimed at children under five from low-income families and the VPK, which serves all Florida four-year-olds regardless of income. The Head Start program offers two years of free full-day preschool accompanied by health and social services, prioritizing parental involvement. For those who may not qualify for Head Start, the VPK program remains accessible to any child who will be four years old by September 1.
Another available avenue is Title 1 Pre-K for four-year-olds. This relatively lesser-known option allows children from low-income families living near Title 1 schools to enroll without regard to income, as long as they reside within the appropriate zones.
For three- to five-year-olds with disabilities, the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) is also available, allowing enrollment throughout the year. Qualifying disabilities include conditions such as speech or language impairment, autism spectrum disorder, or sensory impairments. All students enrolled benefit from Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) suited to their unique learning needs.
Looking at VPK enrollment numbers from the 2024-25 school year reveals interesting trends. Florida mandated free universal preschool services for four-year-olds back in 2002, with this year's funding set at $2,953 per student. The Early Learning Coalition of Polk County began issuing VPK certificates early this year, with over 1,300 applications received and more than 800 already approved.
Currently, 4,408 students are enrolled, with 36.5% attending public elementary schools and 63.5% attending private establishments. This past year saw about 78.5% of enrollees completing the required hours of instruction.
With such options available, the importance of registering early cannot be overstated. Engaging children with high-quality programs significantly contributes to their readiness and adaptability when they start school.