ELC of Miami-Dade/Monroe

Take the next step with Summer Bridge! If your child is enrolled in VPK and lives in Monroe County, they may be eligible for summer support in early literacy before starting kindergarten. Check Eligibility: VPK children may qualify for Summer Bridge support based on their last assessment taken in VPK if they meet any of the following criteria: • Scored below the 25th percentile on their FAST assessment (PM3) • Could not complete practice items (including non-English speakers) • Could not complete the assessment due to individual needs (such as an IEP requiring paper-based testing) 💡 Summer Bridge is a FREE program offered by Public Schools to help prepare eligible VPK students for kindergarten success. It includes: ✔️ Qualified instructors ✔️ 4 hours of daily instruction ✔️ Small class sizes ✔️ Developmentally appropriate lessons ✔️ A strong focus on early literacy skills 📞 If you live in Monroe County, contact Monroe County Public Schools: 305-293-1400 Tania Mendez: [email protected] Jennifer Walker: [email protected] Give your child a strong start to kindergarten—because early learning lasts a lifetime 💙 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK #Summer2026

Take the next step with Summer Bridge! If your child is enrolled in VPK and lives in Miami-Dade County, they may be eligible for summer support in early literacy before starting kindergarten. Check Eligibility: VPK children may qualify for Summer Bridge support based on their last assessment taken in VPK if they meet any of the following criteria: • Scored below the 25th percentile on their FAST assessment (PM3) • Could not complete practice items (including non-English speakers) • Could not complete the assessment due to individual needs (such as an IEP requiring paper-based testing) 💡 Summer Bridge can help! 🗓 June 15 – July 21, 2026 ⏰ 8:30 AM – 1:50 PM 📍 Registration Info: 📍 Registration (May 11 – June 5, 2026): Families can begin using the flyer link now. The Department of Early Childhood Programs will connect you with your child’s school to complete registration and confirm Summer Bridge placement. 📚 How to enroll: • M-DCPS VPK students: Register at your current school • Private childcare or charter school VPK students: Scan the QR code or use the link on the flyer to get started 📞 Questions? Contact the Department of Early Childhood Programs at (305) 995-7632 or visit earlychildhood.dadeschools.net Give your child the confidence to succeed—because every great school journey starts with a strong beginning 💙 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK #Summer2026

Dear Early Care and Education Partners: The Division of Early Learning (@flearlylearning ) has released the School Readiness (SR) and Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Contracts, and applications are due now. 2026 – 2027 School Readiness Contract 1. Visit: / to log in to your account. 2. Click “Contracts," then “Manage Contracts." 3. Click “EDIT” next to the School Readiness for 2026-2027. 2026 – 2027 Voluntary Prekindergarten Contract 1. Visit: / to log in to your account. 2. Click “Contracts," then “Manage Contracts." 3. Click “EDIT” next to the VPK Contract and APP for 2026-2027. 4. Visit: /4twHQHT to access the requirements for VPK - In the VPK Calendar Tab, click “Add Calendar” to create a Fall Calendar with 540 hours. - In the VPK Classrooms Tab, click “Add Classroom” to create Classrooms. 5. "Click Submit" to submit your VPK application for review. All listed documents must be uploaded when you submit the application. If you require technical assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your contract manager: /42ygO6N. . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

We’re officially counting down! Super Advocacy Saturday is where passion meets purpose! 💪📚 Designed to empower early childhood educators, this experience helps you fully embrace your role as an advocate, equipping you with the confidence and tools to make your voice heard in both civic and professional spaces. With FLAEYC by your side as a dedicated advocacy partner, you won’t just learn—you’ll leave ready to take action, influence change, and champion the needs of young children and the educators who support them every day. 🌟 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

True learning goes beyond books and lessons; it’s about nurturing kindness, empathy, respect, and compassion in every child. When we teach children to care for others while growing their minds, we help shape confident learners and caring leaders for the future. . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

HAPPENING THIS SATURDAY! 📚✨ The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is excited to participate in the Gables Family Literacy Festival! Join us for a fun-filled day celebrating the joy of reading, learning, and family engagement. Be sure to stop by our tent/table to say hello and pick up a FREE book for your child while supplies last! 📖 Together, we can help build strong early literacy skills and inspire a lifelong love of reading. Bring the whole family and enjoy stories, activities, and community fun for all ages! 📅 Saturday, May 16, 2026 ⏰ 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 📍 War Memorial Youth Center 405 University Drive We can’t wait to see you there! . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

Growing families deserve support, connection, and care every step of the way. Join Florida Blue’s Maternal Health Fair for a day dedicated to celebrating pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum wellness, and healthy families! Expectant and new mothers, caregivers, and health care providers are invited to enjoy valuable resources, connect with the community, and participate in engaging wellness activities. ✨ Prenatal Yoga ✨ Childbirth Education Workshop ✨ Community Resources & Support ✨ Family-Friendly Environment 📅 Saturday, May 23, 2026 ⏰ 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 📍 North Miami Florida Blue Center 13665 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami, FL 33181 Bring your family, invite a friend, and come build connections that support healthy beginnings for both parents and children. . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

Happy #TipoftheDay! Dear Early Care and Education Partners: Did you know that the Division of Early Learning (DEL) has announced the transition to Teachstone CLASS® 2nd Edition Pre-K? Beginning with the July 2026 contract year, we will transition to the 2nd Edition! We want to make sure you are informed and prepared for what’s ahead. What’s New? While the core of CLASS® remains the same, focusing on meaningful teacher-child interactions, the 2nd Edition includes several enhancements, including but not limited to better-defined behavior markers, diverse examples, and videos reflecting various cultures, communities, and child abilities. What to Expect During Observations The observation process will look very similar to what you are used to. A certified and reliable observer will spend approximately two or more hours in your preschool classroom capturing typical daily interactions. There’s no need to plan a “perfect” lesson; observers are looking to see your everyday practices in action. Tips for a Smooth Transition • Stay Authentic: Follow your regular routine; natural interactions provide the most meaningful observations. • Prioritize Connections: Strong, responsive relationships with children remain at the heart of CLASS®. What’s Next? To help prepare for this update, the Early Learning Coalition will purchase one copy of the 2nd Edition Pre-K Dimensions Guide for each early learning program. These will be provided to programs throughout the transition period. To further support you, we’ve included the CLASS® 2nd Edition crosswalk (/4dgwtwO). Overall, you’ll notice that the revisions focus mainly on clearer language and slight refinement rather than major changes. Be sure to check the ELC training calendar on ElevatEd (/4eAtWQg) for upcoming trainings that will support this transition. For questions, contact [email protected] . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK

Take the next step with Summer Bridge! If your child is enrolled in VPK and lives in Monroe County, they may be eligible for summer support in early literacy before starting kindergarten. Check Eligibility: VPK children may qualify for Summer Bridge support based on their last assessment taken in VPK if they meet any of the following criteria: • Scored below the 25th percentile on their FAST assessment (PM3) • Could not complete practice items (including non-English speakers) • Could not complete the assessment due to individual needs (such as an IEP requiring paper-based testing) 💡 Summer Bridge is a FREE program offered by Public Schools to help prepare eligible VPK students for kindergarten success. It includes: ✔️ Qualified instructors ✔️ 4 hours of daily instruction ✔️ Small class sizes ✔️ Developmentally appropriate lessons ✔️ A strong focus on early literacy skills 📞 If you live in Monroe County, contact Monroe County Public Schools: 305-293-1400 Tania Mendez: [email protected] Jennifer Walker: [email protected] Give your child a strong start to kindergarten—because early learning lasts a lifetime 💙 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK #Summer2026

Take the next step with Summer Bridge! If your child is enrolled in VPK and lives in Miami-Dade County, they may be eligible for summer support in early literacy before starting kindergarten. Check Eligibility: VPK children may qualify for Summer Bridge support based on their last assessment taken in VPK if they meet any of the following criteria: • Scored below the 25th percentile on their FAST assessment (PM3) • Could not complete practice items (including non-English speakers) • Could not complete the assessment due to individual needs (such as an IEP requiring paper-based testing) 💡 Summer Bridge can help! 🗓 June 15 – July 21, 2026 ⏰ 8:30 AM – 1:50 PM 📍 Registration Info: 📍 Registration (May 11 – June 5, 2026): Families can begin using the flyer link now. The Department of Early Childhood Programs will connect you with your child’s school to complete registration and confirm Summer Bridge placement. 📚 How to enroll: • M-DCPS VPK students: Register at your current school • Private childcare or charter school VPK students: Scan the QR code or use the link on the flyer to get started 📞 Questions? Contact the Department of Early Childhood Programs at (305) 995-7632 or visit earlychildhood.dadeschools.net Give your child the confidence to succeed—because every great school journey starts with a strong beginning 💙 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK #Summer2026

Miami Lighthouse Academy students from toddlers to 3rd graders celebrated Mother's Day by inviting moms into the classroom to enjoy arts and crafts together, dancing, and a gift exchange! 💝✨ 🌹 Happy Mothers Day! #WeLoveYou 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘞𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦, 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 "𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦" 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶! Miami Lighthouse Academy offers- 🍎 APPLE accredited free VPK for children who are sighted 👓 inclusive preschool for students with visual impairments ✏️ Kindergarten and 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Grade for students who are visually impaired 🏆 Our Academy is a fully accredited Gold Seal Quality Care Program provider, in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Transportation and therapies provided! Learn more, register your child, or book an Academy tour here ➜ Together, we prove it's possible to see without sight!™ 💙 #MiamiLighthouseAcademy Our Academy is made possible with support from: @thechildrenstrust @elcmdm @miamischools @eseoutreach @mdcps_ese @educationfl 🙏 Miami Lighthouse Academy has accreditations from: @faccm_apple @faeraware & more! #InclusiveClassrooms #VisualImpairment #MothersDay

Making waves for a healthier future 🌊🐠 On April 25, 2026, our Monroe County Team proudly joined the community at Mote’s Ocean Fest to celebrate ocean conservation and environmental stewardship. Families, locals, and visitors came together to learn about the importance of protecting our local ecosystems and how each of us can play a part in preserving them for future generations. 🌎 . . . #ReadPlayGrow #EarlyLiteracy #StartsToday #EarlyLearningExcellence #SchoolReadiness #CommunityHeroes #SR #MiamiDade #Monroe #VPK