Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Programs
What is VPK?
- The Florida Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program prepares 4-year-old children for success in kindergarten and beyond.
- The District offers VPK programs in many, but not all, elementary schools through four program models.
Who is Eligible?
- Children in Palm Beach County who turn 4 years old on or before September 1 of the year before kindergarten and have a VPK Certificate are eligible. However, the state allows parents with children who turn 4 between February 2 and September 1 to postpone enrollment until the following year.
What are the VPK Program Options in the School District of Palm Beach County?
VPK Title I Enrichment Program
- Our VPK Title I Programs offer free, full-day (elementary school hours) prekindergarten for children who live in a Title I school boundary.
- VPK Title I Programs with more applicants than seats, will hold a lottery.
VPK Fee-Supported Enrichment Program
- Our VPK Fee-Supported Programs offer full-day (elementary school hours) prekindergarten in select schools.
- Parents are responsible for a fee for the second half of the day.
- VPK Fee-Supported Programs may enroll on a first-come, first-served basis or may hold a lottery.
- Priority is given to students who live in a school’s boundary area.
- Student applications from outside the boundary area will be put on a waitlist.
- Schools will notify parents of their child’s enrollment selection status, including waitlist status.
VPK Head Start Program
- Our VPK Head Start Programs offer free, year-round, extended-day prekindergarten and comprehensive services for children and their families that meet federal poverty guidelines.
VPK Migrant Education Program
- Our VPK Migrant Education Programs offer free, school-year, extended-day prekindergarten for children whose families meet Migrant Education enrollment guidelines.
Next Steps and Quick Information:
- For specific program registration information, click on the tabs on the left side panel of this page.
- Parents must visit a school to register their child in a VPK Program. The District’s online registration system supports K-12 student registration only.
- To obtain your child’s required VPK Certificate, go to the Early Learning Family Portal to apply for a VPK Certificate.
- To find your home school, visit the Find My School page.
- For assistance, contact:
Department of Early Childhood Education
Phone: (561) 434-8720
Email: earlychildhooded@palmbeachschools.org