Early Learning Coalition to expand School Readiness program in Pinellas County

Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County is excited to announce it’s offering over 1,000 additional School Readiness scholarships to families with children, ages 0-12, in Pinellas County. The Florida legislature recently approved additional funds to expand early learning program that assists families obtain affordable, high-quality early childhood education and school age care.

Early Learning Coalition’s School Readiness program pays a portion of tuition for children from low-income, working families and those with other risk factors that influence healthy child development.  Parents pay a fee based on their household income. Access to affordable care is critical so parents can work to support their families.

The School Readiness program is not just child care. Providers use age-appropriate curriculum delivered by trained early childhood educators that work closely with parents to assess developmental achievements. The program’s play-based learning environments and nurturing care foster a child’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development.

“As families begin to settle into a new normal due to Covid19, we are offering
more early learning development resources to assist people in our community. Our additional scholarships will allow working families to have a place to give their children the tools to succeed in a safe environment without worrying about the cost,” said Lindsay Carson,
CEO of Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County.

Parents can choose the best setting to meet the needs of their family. Child care services are available at contracted private preschools, family child care homes, school-age care providers and faith based schools.

How to Apply: Visit online at ELCPinellas.org and click For Families, School Readiness Scholarship section.