By Lloyd Cohen, Ph.D.
Eligible parents should take advantage of the new state funded universal pre-kindergarten for 4 year-olds. Florida voters approved the pre-K plan in 2003. Registration for the program will be on a first come, first-served basis.
How to Register for Universal Pre-Kindergarten:
” Fill out a registration form online at www.vpkhelp.org. It will automatically be entered in a statewide database. Print a copy for your file.
” Visit one of the assigned certification centers. Bring proof of Florida residence and the child’s birth date. A list of locations, hours and acceptable forms of identification is available at the website. You will receive a certificate of eligibility.
” Choose a pre-K provider- a directory is also on the website. Call the provider to ensure that a spot is available, to get information about the program, and to determine the documents that are necessary in order to register.
Remember, both public and private schools will be hosting the Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program for 4 year olds. There are hundreds of providers throughout he state of Florida. The list of providers can be accessed at www.vpkhelp.org. Parents do not have to pay if their children are qualified. Hurry and get online, or call 305-644-4046 in Dade, and 754-321-1950 in Broward, to obtain and fill out registration form.
