Navigating the landscape of early childhood education can be overwhelming for parents and caregivers. In Florida, Early Learning Coalitions (ELCs) serve as vital local resources, connecting families with crucial services like school readiness programs, Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), and child care assistance. If you are seeking support in Miami-Dade or Monroe Counties, the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe (ELC of Miami-Dade/Monroe) is your primary point of contact. This article will guide you through understanding Florida’s ELC network and how to directly reach the ELC serving Miami-Dade and Monroe.
Understanding Florida’s Early Learning Coalition Network
Early Learning Coalitions are established across Florida to streamline access to early childhood education and care services at the local level. These coalitions are instrumental in ensuring that children from birth to age five have the opportunity to access high-quality early learning experiences. They act as localized hubs, providing information, resources, and support tailored to the specific needs of their communities. Whether you’re interested in enrolling your child in VPK, exploring school readiness programs, or understanding your child care options, your local ELC is designed to assist you.
The original directory lists all the ELCs across Florida. For a comprehensive view, you can also download the ELC Directory (PDF). Below is a list of ELCs throughout Florida to help you locate the coalition relevant to other regions if needed.
- ELC of Alachua County: Website – 352-375-4110
- ELC of the Big Bend Region: Website (Liberty, Gadsden, Wakulla, Leon, Jefferson, Taylor, Madison counties) – 850-385-0504, Toll-Free (CCR&R): 866-973-9030
- ELC of Brevard County: Website – Administration: 321-637-1800
- ELC of Broward County: Website – Administration: 954-377-2188
- ELC of Duval County: Website – Customer Service: 904-208-2044, Ext. 1
- ELC of the Emerald Coast: Website (Okaloosa, Walton counties) – 850-833-3627
- ELC of Escambia County: Website – Pensacola: 850-595-5400, Subsidy Child Care Building: 850-595-0202
- ELC of Flagler and Volusia Counties: Website – Administration: 386-323-2400
- ELC of Florida’s Gateway: Website (Hamilton, Lafayette, Suwannee, Columbia, Union counties) – Lake City: 386-752-9770, Toll-Free: 866-752-9770
- ELC of Florida’s Heartland: Website (Hardee, De Soto, Highlands, Charlotte counties) – Administration: 941-255-1650
- ELC of Hillsborough County: Website – 813-515-2340
- ELC of Indian River, Martin and Okeechobee counties (IRMO): Website – Administration: 772-220-1220, Toll-Free: 877-220-1223
- ELC of Lake County: Website – Administration: 352-435-0566, Toll-Free 888-352-5253
- ELC of Manatee County: Website – Administration: 941-757-2900
- ELC of Marion County: Website – 352-369-2315, Toll-Free: 877-399-2315
- ELC of Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties: Website – Administration: 305-646-7220 (Miami-Dade), 305-296-5557 (Monroe)
- ELC of the Nature Coast: Website (Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, Citrus, Sumter counties) – 352-563-9939
- ELC of North Florida: Website (Baker, Nassau, Bradford, Clay, St. Johns, Putnam counties) – 1-800-238-3463
- ELC of Northwest Florida: Website (Holmes, Washington, Bay, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Franklin counties) – 850-747-5400, Toll-Free: 866-269-3022
- ELC of Orange County: Website – Administration: 407-841-6607
- ELC of Osceola County: Website – Administration: 407-933-5353
- ELC of Palm Beach County: Website – Administration: 561-214-8000
- ELC of Pasco and Hernando counties: Website – Administration: 727-233-8291, Toll-Free: 866-797-9444
- ELC of Pinellas County: Website – 727-548-1439, 727-548-1509
- ELC of Polk County: Website – 863-577-2450, Administration: 863-733-9064, Toll-Free: 877-ELCPOLK (352-7655)
- ELC of St. Lucie County: Website – Administration: 772-595-6424, CCR&R: 772-595-6363
- ELC of Santa Rosa County: Website – Milton: 850-983-5313
- ELC of Sarasota County: Website – Administration: 941-954-4830
- ELC of Seminole: Website – Administration: 407-960-2460
- ELC of Southwest Florida: Website (Glades, Lee, Hendry, Collier counties) – Administration: 239-935-6100
- Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA): Website – 239-658-3560
Connecting with the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe
For residents of Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is the dedicated organization to contact. This coalition is specifically focused on serving the diverse communities within these counties, offering resources and support tailored to local needs.
Contact Information for ELC of Miami-Dade/Monroe:
- Website: www.elcmdm.org
- Miami-Dade Administration: 305-646-7220
- Monroe Administration: 305-296-5557
By reaching out to the ELC of Miami-Dade/Monroe, you can gain access to information and assistance regarding:
- School Readiness Programs: Learn about programs designed to prepare young children for kindergarten, focusing on developmental skills and early literacy.
- Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK): Enroll your child in Florida’s free VPK program, ensuring access to quality preschool education.
- Child Care Services: Explore options for subsidized child care and resources to help you find quality care that meets your family’s needs.
- Referrals to other Early Education Resources: Connect with additional support services and organizations within Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties that promote early childhood development.
Conclusion
Finding the right resources for early childhood education is crucial for a child’s successful future. Florida’s Early Learning Coalitions provide a valuable service by localizing and simplifying this process. If you reside in Miami-Dade or Monroe Counties, the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is ready to assist you in navigating early learning programs and accessing the support your family needs. Start by visiting their website or calling their administration offices to explore the opportunities available for your child’s bright beginning.
