The academic success of early learners depends on their level of readiness to participate in rigorous kindergarten programs, according to experts at Orange County Public Schools (OCPS). When young students reach kindergarten, they will be challenged on a daily basis in all academic areas. In fact, some experts call kindergarten the “new first grade.” That’s why children who participate in quality pre-kindergarten programs are better prepared ─ both academically and socially.

OCPS district leaders believe that highly qualified teachers with specialized training in early learning have the knowledge and skill set to make sure children are ready for kindergarten. Research also supports the importance of proficient educators:

• The most effective preschool teachers have a four-year degree or higher, with specialized training in teaching young children.
• Children with high-quality early learning experiences are 40% less likely to need special education or be held back a grade.

Early childhood development has a tremendous impact on a child’s future academic success. In Orange County’s public schools, children can experience high-quality learning in either full-day or half-day pre-kindergarten programs. More than 80% of eligible 4-year-old children in Florida are enrolled in voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) programs. Classes are small and afford children the chance to improve literacy skills and learn how to work with others in a classroom setting. VPK information can be accessed online through Orange County Public Schools (ocps.net) ─ look for the VPK link under the Quick Links heading ─ or the Florida Department of Education (floridaearlylearning.com).

Before children start pre-K, parents are, of course, the first (and continual) teachers! Therefore, parents and educators play a vital collaborative role. To accelerate school-readiness skills, follow these simple suggestions:

• Read to and read with your child every day.
• Play and talk with your child daily.
• Ask open-ended questions.
• Provide activities such as stringing beads, play-dough, and finger-painting to support small muscle development in the fingers and wrist. This will help with writing skills.
• Arrange play groups to support social development.
• Take advantage of critical-thinking opportunities.
• Offer choices to exercise critical-thinking skills.
• Do your research to find high-quality pre-kindergarten programs offered by the public schools or private providers.
• Register early for kindergarten (May) so that your child gets the full benefit of what the school offers prior to the first day, including meeting the teacher and touring the school.
• Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten are significant and exciting years in the lives of children and parents. Parents: Do your homework on the registration process to learn about enrollment expectations: Children must:
• Reside in the state of Florida
• Be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1 for VPK
• Be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 for kindergarten

Where should you register? Start with your zoned elementary school (generally the school in or near your neighborhood). You will need to bring your child’s birth certificate, immunization record (on a Florida 680 form) and proof of a physical, as well as verification of your address with a lease or deed.

If your child has already completed kindergarten, bring the report card and withdrawal form from the last school attended. If your child has documented special needs, bring the Individual Education Plan (IEP).

A registration form for public schools in Orange County is available online (ocps.net); select the “School Registration Info” link to complete and/or hand deliver to the school.

During the week of May 12, 2014, Orange County elementary schools will host Kindergarten Round-Up days, with extra staff and special events for inquiries about the school’s programs. Then, you and your child can attend Meet the Teacher functions and receive additional information. Registering early also gives the school an indication of how many kindergarteners to expect and, therefore, staff appropriately. Early enrollment during the Kindergarten Round-Up will allow you to rest easy knowing your child is signed up and ready for the first day of school. For more information, call the OCPS Public Information Office at (407) 317-3463.

Orange County Public Schools: VPK Registration at a Glance

• There are 14 half-day programs and 56 full-day programs. Full-day programs are in Title I schools. To register:
• Access the list of schools that offer VPK programs at ocps.net or (407) 317-3500, option 4.
• Space is limited! Call the school to book a spot.
• Bring the VPK application, your child’s birth certificate, and proof of residency to the school.
• After your child is accepted into the program, register using the OCPS online registration packet. Deliver required documents to the school.
• VPK registration in Orange County Public Schools begins the week of March 31–April 4, 2014.

Kindergarten enrollment information can also be found at ocps.net. Kindergarten registration for Orange County Public Schools begins the week of May 12-17, 2014. Register before August 6^th to gather all information about Meet the Teacher and other school events.