Welcome

Welcome to the Early Childhood Program website. Our team is dedicated and committed to providing support, resources and advocacy for the protection and continuance of developmentally appropriate and child-centered practices in the early childhood classroom environment.

Give your child the strongest start. Discover the power of early learning with OCPS.

At Orange County Public Schools, we believe every child deserves a bright beginning. Our Early Childhood Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, nurturing, and engaging learning experiences that set the foundation for lifelong success.

Why Early Childhood Education Matters:

The first few years of a child's life are a period of incredible growth and development. High-quality early childhood education:

• Builds Essential Skills: Fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, language, literacy, and mathematical understanding.
• Nurtures Social-Emotional Growth: Helps children develop self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, and positive relationships through programs like Conscious Discipline.
• Prepares for Kindergarten: Equips children with the knowledge and readiness they need to thrive as they transition to elementary school.
• Promotes Overall Well-being: Supports cognitive, physical, and emotional health, setting the stage for future academic and life achievements.

How to Apply for VPK

Here's a 3-step guide to help families apply for a VPK Eligibility Certificate and complete enrollment, including the additional documentation required by OCPS (Orange County Public Schools):

✅ Step 1: Apply Online for the VPK Certificate

• Go to the Florida Early Learning Family Portal: to apply for a VPK Eligibility Certificate.

Upload the following documents:

• Proof of Florida residency (e.g., utility bill, lease, driver's license)
• Proof of child's age (e.g. birth certificate, passport)

Once approved, you'll receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) via email or portal download

✅ Step 2: Choose a VPK Provider

• Select link to view a list of VPK providers within Orange County Public Schools.
• You may also contact the Early Learning Coalition to find a participating VPK provider near you.

✅ Step 3: Enroll with Your VPK Provider

• Bring your Certificate of Eligibility to your selected VPK provider to complete enrollment.
• For OCPS, you'll also need to provide the following:
  • Your child's birth certificate
  • Two proofs of residency
  • Florida School Entry Health Exam (Form DH 3040)
  • Immunization Form (DH 680)
  • Select link to visit the OCPS required registration documents webpage

Please note the following important information regarding VPK registration:

• All VPK registrations must be completed online using a computer or smartphone by visiting the Family Services website.
• The VPK application is available in multiple languages to support families of diverse backgrounds.
• For assistance with your online application, please contact the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County at (407) 841-6607.
• Enrollment is based on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Standard VPK classes can accommodate up to 20 students. Once a class reaches full capacity, applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Please note: The VPK inclusion class has a maximum enrollment of 18 students.