The foundation of a successful education begins long before kindergarten. In Florida, the Early Learning Coalition Florida network plays a crucial role in ensuring that young children have access to high-quality early care and education. These coalitions, partnering with the Florida Division of Early Learning (DEL) and organizations like the Redlands Christian Migrant Association, administer vital programs designed to support families and prepare children for lifelong learning.
Key Programs Offered by Early Learning Coalitions in Florida
Florida’s early learning coalitions are the local point of contact for numerous state-funded initiatives. Three primary programs they oversee are:
School Readiness Program (SR)
Recognizing that financial constraints can be a barrier to early education, the School Readiness Program (SR) provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families. This support enables parents to pursue financial self-sufficiency while ensuring their young children receive enriching early learning experiences. The program aims to set children on a path to future academic success by providing access to quality care and education during their crucial early years.
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) is a free educational program in Florida designed to prepare all 4-year-old children for kindergarten. VPK is a significant investment in early childhood education, offering a standards-based curriculum delivered in various settings, from school-based programs to private child care centers. The early learning coalition florida network helps families access VPK programs and ensures these programs meet quality standards, setting children up for success in kindergarten and beyond.
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)
Navigating the landscape of child care options can be overwhelming for parents. The Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network, supported by early learning coalition florida, simplifies this process. CCR&R provides families with information and resources to identify and select quality child care options that best fit their unique needs. This service is invaluable in helping parents make informed decisions about their child’s care and early education.
Florida’s Vision and Mission for Early Learning
The overarching vision for early care and education in Florida is to create a world-class system where every child can reach their full potential. The Division of Early Learning, in collaboration with the early learning coalition florida, works towards this vision by providing access to high-quality programs and services. Their mission is to build a strong foundation for Florida’s youngest learners, empowering educators and families through choice, support, and resources. This ensures that Florida’s future leaders are ready to learn, succeed, and contribute to the state’s prosperity.
Additional Resources and Quality Initiatives
Beyond these core programs, Florida’s early learning system includes initiatives focused on quality and professional development.
Gold Seal Quality Care Program
The Gold Seal Quality Care Program recognizes child care facilities and family day care homes that demonstrate a commitment to exceeding minimum licensing standards. These providers achieve accreditation from recognized agencies, signifying a higher level of care and supervision. The early learning coalition florida often supports providers in pursuing Gold Seal recognition, further enhancing the quality of early learning environments across the state.
Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential
Recognizing the importance of early literacy skills, the Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential program offers high-quality online training for early learning professionals. This program equips educators with evidence-based strategies to support emergent literacy development in children from birth through prekindergarten. The early learning coalition florida system benefits from this initiative as it strengthens the skills of the early learning workforce, ultimately improving outcomes for children.
For more information about early learning programs and how the early learning coalition florida can support your family or child care program, call 866-FL-READY (357-3239).
