Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) is a state funded early learning program designed to prepare children for success in kindergarten.

 

Eligibility for VPK is determined through the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando.  

For a list of VPK providers please contact the Early Learning Coalition at 727-569-1004 or 727-233-8291

 

Head Start/VPK (Online Application)(Interview Required)

Families applying for Head Start with children who turn 4 years of age on or before September 1, 2023 must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) online through the Early Learning Coalition. In order to obtain your child's COE, you will have to create a Family Portal account and complete the online VPK Application. To access the Family Portal website click here.

 

VPK at Select Elementary Schools - Children must be 4 years old on or before 9/1/2023.

The District School Board of Pasco County offers the opportunity for a limited number of VPK students to attend a VPK classroom for 3 hours a day. The program can be extended for the last 3 hours of the school day through a tuition fee of $100 a week. 

Some elementary schools may have up to 18 slots available for the 3 hour VPK program. Other elementary schools offering VPK are Special Education inclusion/VPK classrooms. These classroom consists of children with a diagnosed disability (IEP) who can benefit from being around typically developing children (VPK). The VPK slots for ALL classrooms are on a first come, first serve basis. Please do not call the elementary schools. 

You will need to apply for your child's VPK certificate here.

If you are interested in your child attending a VPK class then click here to complete the online request.

For more information on Pasco County Schools VPK programs please contact the VPK Coordinator, Mikesha Hayes at mlhayes@pasco.k12.fl.us

 

Summer VPK (Child will be 5 years of age on or before 9/1/2023) 

Pasco County Schools will offer the Summer VPK program at two elementary schools, Richey Elementary (New Port Richey) and Woodland (Zephyrhills). 

The Summer VPK program provides instruction to age eligible Pasco County children who did not participate in a 540 hours school year VPK program at a pre-school/Head Start and who will be going into kindergarten in the fall of 2023. 

For more information, click here. español    Apply for the Summer VPK program.