Skip To Main Content
The Courage to Create Artists Inspiring Artists
Pinellas teachers showcase their art

May 22, 2026 - "The Courage to Create: Artists Inspiring Artists" exhibition celebrates the passion, creativity, and dedication of Pinellas art educators.

Summer VPK

If your child has already attended VPK, check out our Rising Kindergarten Program

 

Summer VPK Dates: June 1 through July 22 (Closed July 3)

Days: Monday - Friday

Time: 8:30 am to 4:45 pm except on July 22nd: 8:30 am to 11:30am

Location: Bette Ra Ivey Discovery Center located at 8570 66th Street N. in Pinellas Park

Transportation: Not available for Summer VPK

Breakfast, lunch and a snack will be provided daily.

Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) is a free, state-funded program that prepares children for kindergarten. Summer VPK is designed for children entering kindergarten. Children must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2026. The summer program is 300 hours. VPK provides developmentally appropriate activities in literacy, language, science, social studies, math, health, safety, art and music. VPK helps children develop the skills they need to be strong readers, improving their chances of success in school. Summer VPK is staffed with two certified teachers. Classes typically have 18 to 20 students. Follow your child’s development using the FOURS Child Development Checklist & Tips booklet.

Summer VPK Assessments are scheduled during PM1 and PM3. The testing will occur in the first and last 10 days of the program. 

Parents will be notified of STAR Early Literacy results and the information will be shared within 7 days of the test session. Should a student qualify for the New Worlds Reading Initiative, families will be notified, and enrollment support will be provided. 

APPLY FOR A CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY:

To attend VPK, all students must have a Certificate of Eligibility (voucher) from the Early Learning Coalition. Please visit elcpinellas.org to apply for the voucher. Families must have the voucher at the time of enrollment at the school. For information about the Certificate of Eligibility, please call the Early Learning Coalition at (727) 400-4411.  

 

Registration is underway with two Easy Steps: 

1: Get a Certificate of Eligibility (voucher) from the Early Learning Coalition

Visit the Early Learning Coalition website and complete the online application for a Certificate of Eligibility (voucher). For information or questions regarding the online application, please call the Early Learning Coalition at 727-400-4411.

2: Enroll at the site and bring the Certificate of Eligibility (voucher) with you to the site.

Bring your Certificate of Eligibility (voucher) and the following documents to the Bette Ra Ivey Discovery Center:
  • Birth certificate/proof of child’s age
  • Florida Certificate of Immunization (DH Form 680)
  • Physical examination certificate signed by a licensed examiner
  • Proof of Florida residency (two forms of documentation required)

 

VPK Resources