About | Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida

Our History

In 1999, the Florida Legislature enacted the School Readiness Act, unifying early childhood education and childcare programs into a single system. This led to the creation of the Florida Partnership for School Readiness to coordinate programs through local coalitions. Key elements of the School Readiness Programs include:

Developmentally appropriate curriculum
Appropriate staff-to-children ratios
Informed parental choice of childcare providers

These programs are delivered by childcare providers and school-based sites operated by public and nonpublic schools, funded by both state and federal funds.

In January 2005, changes to Chapter 1002.55-79 of the Florida Statutes established the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (VPK). This program provides free early childhood education to all Florida children who turn 4 years old on or before September 1 of the school year. It aims to enhance each child's progress in language and cognitive development through basic skills education.

Additionally, the governance structure shifted: the Florida Partnership for School Readiness was abolished, and the Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) took charge of the program. The Florida Office of Early Learning, under the Department of Education, assumed responsibility for state-level policy and coordination of school readiness programs. Since 2005, 30 Early Learning Coalitions have administered both the School Readiness Program and VPK at the county or regional level. VPK is delivered by private prekindergarten providers and school-based sites operated by public and nonpublic schools, fully funded by state funds.

Our Mission

Our mission is to enhance the quality of children's lives by providing families, early childhood educators, caregivers, and community partners in Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee Counties with opportunities to positively impact the future.

Together, we create opportunities that shape a brighter future, ensuring every child experiences a life filled with growth, learning, and endless possibilities. By working hand in hand, we positively impact not just today, but the generations to come.

Our Vision

All children in Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee communities will be healthy, eager, and successful learners, supported by well-informed parents, involved citizens, and collaborative community partners.

Early Learning Programs will have high quality standards, comprehensive services, seamless delivery systems with diverse settings, and well-educated, competent, and adequately compensated staff.

Our Motto

Nurturing the young children of Southwest Florida and those who care for them!

Our motto reflects our commitment to fostering a brighter future for Southwest Florida's children by providing resources, guidance, and support to families, educators, and caregivers. Together, we aim to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.

Our Goals

Ensure children are enrolled in safe, high-quality child care and preschool programs with trained and dedicated staff.
Expand access to quality early learning programs to support families striving for economic independence.
Promote the emotional, intellectual, physical, and social development of children.
Offer professional development opportunities for early learning professionals.
Partner with community organizations to advance the Coalition's mission.
Secure and manage funding to effectively support the Coalition’s goals.
Uphold fiscal responsibility and allocate resources to achieve measurable results.
Establish transparent accountability measures for stakeholders.
Educate the community on early learning issues and develop strategies to build support for the Coalition's mission.