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Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
Explore our new website! Our offices will be closed on May 26, 2025 in observance of the federal holiday.
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Parent Portal

Importance of School Readiness (SR)

Parents are a child’s first teacher. And who better to teach them, than those who love and understand so well their individual needs? During these important years of development in a child’s life, school readiness programs unite with parents as partners to make sure children achieve social and emotional well-being.

Our programs provide age-appropriate lessons led by trained early childhood teachers, working closely with parents to track each child's development. By building a strong foundation, we help children prepare for both school and life. Investing in children is investing in the future!
Check on the Status of Your ApplicationApply for Child Care Assistance

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Am I Eligible?

To find out if you qualify for the School Readiness Program, please review the eligibility checklist for required documents. Keep in mind that funding is limited, and there is a waitlist. It’s important for parents to keep their contact information up to date with the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida.

If you have any questions about child care assistance or need to update your contact details, please contact us at (239) 935-6100 for Glades, Hendry, or Lee County, or (239) 935-6168 for Collier County.

Ready to get Started?
DOWNLOAD THE REQUIRED 
FORMS!

Applying for SR

Applying for School Readiness funding, also known as child care assistance, is easy with the right information. Follow these simple steps to apply and ensure your child is ready for school.

Documents Required to Determine Eligibility

Make sure you have the following documents ready when applying:

  • Proof of income (most recent paystub)

  • School enrollment letter

  • Disability award letter

Apply for SR Today!

Ready to Apply?

Visit the Application Site: Go to the online parent portal to start your application online. Keep in mind:

  • Limited Funding: Apply early as there may be a waitlist.

  • New Opportunity: The School Readiness MATCH Program offers local funding for Lee and Collier counties.

  • Higher Income Limits: Households earning up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may now qualify.

  • Eligibility: Parents must be working, in school, or have a disability.

  • Reapply: If you were previously over the income limit, you can reapply under the new guidelines.

Apply Now

Need Help with Your Application or Need to Update Your Information?

Our staff can assist you with the application process, provide you with information you need to make an informed choice of early learning program and to find a quality childcare provider or assist with updating your contact information. If you have any questions about Child Care Assistance or need help with your application, please reach out to us:

Glades, Hendry, or Lee County: (239) 935-6100
Collier County: (239) 935-6168

Important Documents

Child Support Affidavit

Please have the absent parent fill out this Child Support Affidavit and attach their proof of identification.

Disability/Medical/Condition/
Developmental Delay Verification Form

This document qualifies parent/guardian for childcare assistance. Disability must prevent them from caring for the children or child on a full-time basis. Medical Provider must fill out this form for parent/guardian to determine purpose of care.

Employment Verification

If you work through an employer and do not receive any paystubs nor paystubs provide hours worked. Please have your employer fill out this form. Depending on your case you may use this employment verification form if your paystubs do not provide detailed information.

Household Size Affidavit

Parent/Guardian must fill out this form to verify household. This form is required to determine SR Eligibility Verification. No notarization required. Please note if you receive food stamps, please submit your most recent food stamps award letter instead to your portal. Please note this is only for SR Eligibility Verification.

Work Calendar

Complete this form fully and provide at least 4 weeks of income and work hours. If in the SR Eligibility Process, you must also submit 4 weeks of bank statements, receipts, invoices, checks, and relevant tax documents such as the 1099 Form.

Residency Affidavit Form

Use this form for both SR & VPK if you have no proof of residency in your name and live with someone who does. The parent/guardian must complete and notarize the form. Notary services are available at our office—bring your ID or passport.

‍Required: A signed and dated statement from the homeowner confirming residency for the parent/guardian and children. It must include full names, address, phone number, and the homeowner’s signature. The homeowner must also provide one proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or driver’s license).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is School Readiness?
I have a Family Portal account, but I can't remember my password.