Department of Early Learning

VPK First is a free, part-day program for children who turn 4 years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. If their fourth birthday falls between February 2 and September 1, parents can postpone enrolling their child in VPK that year and wait until the following year when their child is 5. 

VPK First is available at all LCS elementary schools and the Department of Early Learning Early Childhood Centers. 

How to Register 

1. Get VPK Certificate. Visit the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend to obtain this certificate.

2. Gather Required Documents: 

• Two proofs of residency:
  • Homestead exemption, mortgage deed, current lease, current rental agreement, or property tax record 
    -AND-
  • Current electric bill, or activation notice is acceptable (dated within 30 days), vehicle registration, or government mail. (Note: drivers' licenses and voter registration cards are not accepted as proof of residency)
• Current physical, “Florida School Entry Health Form.”
• Current immunizations, “Florida 680 Immunization Form.”
• Birth Certificate
• Signed and dated VPK Certificate 
• Signed LCS VPK Attendance and Discipline Policy 
  • Download Attendance Policy Form 
  • Download Discipline Policy Form

3. Create a Focus Parent Portal Account. Click HERE to create a Focus Parent Portal account.  

4. Click “Forms” in the Focus Parent Portal Account and select “VPK Open Enrollment.”

You will have the option to select a from the list of available VPK sites.  Once approved, you will receive notification in your Parent Portal Account.

Please remember that your child cannot begin school without all the proper documents (listed above).

Program Locations 

Available at all LCS elementary campuses and the Department of Early Learning. 

What to Expect 

Play-based instruction, certified teachers, inclusive classrooms, push-in therapies, daily routines including centers, outdoor play, and shared reading.