Child Care Assistance in Florida
In Florida, Bezos Academy is an approved provider for Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) and School Readiness. These are separate programs with different eligibility requirements that are determined by your local Early Learning Coalition (ELC). Your family may qualify for multiple programs.
Please review the requirements below to determine if your family may be eligible for VPK or School Readiness. If you are likely eligible, it is required you apply for the benefit.
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Eligibility Requirements
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) is eligibility is based on a child’s age. Children who are four years old by September 1 of the applicable school year generally qualify. VPK is available for all Florida children who meet age requirements. Eligibility is not based on income.
All Bezos Academy students who are age-eligible for VPK are required to apply for their VPK Certificate of Eligibility.
How do I apply for VPK?
Apply for a VPK Certificate of Eligibility through the Division of Early Learning family portal. Click the link to create an account or sign in to your existing account then complete all application requirements. Once you receive your VPK certificate, you will work with your Bezos Academy Head of School to finalize your VPK enrollment.
School Readiness
Click here to complete the School Readiness Pre-Qualification form to determine whether you may be eligible. If you are, it is required you apply for School Readiness. You don’t need to be approved for School Readiness to attend Bezos Academy.
To be eligible for School Readiness, families must meet the following requirements:
- Gross income must be at or below 55 percent of state median income for family size
- Parent(s)/guardian(s) must work or participate in an educational activity (such as attending college or trade school) at least 20 hours per weekworkers.
Review the table below for School Readiness’s income limits by household size:
| Household Size | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| School Readiness annual income limit | $40,438 | $49,952 | $59,467 | $68,982 | $78,497 |
Other children may be eligible if they have special needs or are at risk of abuse, neglect or abandonment, or if they are homeless, victims of domestic violence, or income-eligible migrant workers.
How do I apply for School Readiness?
Start your School Readiness application through the Division of Early Learning family portal. Click the link to create an account or sign in to your existing account then complete all application requirements.
Early Learning Coalitions (ELCs)
Bezos Academy has schools in five Early Learning Coalitions (ELCs) across Florida. Each ELC provides additional information and helpful family support specific to their families. Select your county to learn more:
Additional Resources
- What is the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program?
- VPK Flyer in English and Spanish
- What is School Readiness?
- School Readiness Fact Sheet in English and Spanish
