Please watch this video for instructions on how to navigate the Parent Portal and submit your application.
Welcome to Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County
School Readiness programs offer qualified parents the opportunity to access affordable, quality child care, allowing them to work and contribute to the community while being assured their children are safe and well cared for. Direct child care services are delivered through a comprehensive network of more than 100 contracted child care providers, including licensed centers, family child care homes, school-based programs, and faith-based programs throughout Alachua County. To enroll your child in a school readiness program, click on the Parent Portal link above.
As part of the School Readiness program, regular screenings and assessments help identify children who may have special needs and help parents address these needs early, giving children the best chance of success. Nearly 2,200 children and their families are served by School Readiness Programs in Alachua County each year.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) (or preschool) is available free to all Florida 4-year-old children. VPK programs emphasize learning through play, using developmentally appropriate instruction and activities. Approved VPK providers prepare children to be ready for kindergarten. Approximately 1,500 children participate in Alachua County VPK programs each year. To enroll your child in a VPK program, click on the Parent Portal link above.
Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) services are offered to everyone regardless of income and offer up-to-date child-care provider information based on individual needs, as well as listings for food, clothing, shelter, transportation, employment opportunities, training, and professional development. The CCR&R office is open
Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM with the exception of legal holidays. Contact
(352) 375-4110 for assistance.
Support to Childcare Providers is offered in a variety of ways including coaching, training, stipends, and classroom materials. For more information about becoming a child care provider, click on the Provider Portal link above.
Parents, in order to gain access to the Eligibility Verification Wizard (EV Wizard) to re-certify your care, report a change or to request an enrollment/provider transfer,
please email eligibility@elcalachua.org . Please be sure your email includes your name and description of your request. Allow up to 3 business days for access to your portal account.
Early Learning Lasts a Lifetime
The children of Alachua County are one of our greatest resources. Their early experiences set the stage for their future success in school – and in life. At the Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County, we strive to make certain that children and families have access to the quality, affordable early learning programs and services necessary to better ensure their successful futures.
The Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County (ELCAC) serves as a resource to families and child care providers. Our mission is to ensure that all children in our community have the chance to participate in enriching opportunities that allow them to explore, create, play, and grow.
We know that children are actively learning wherever they are – at home, in early learning programs, and in their communities. Parents are undeniably children’s first and most important teachers. With this in mind, we work hard to maintain a quality early learning system with programs that respect families’ individual needs.
Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County
Our mission is made possible through the generosity of:
Children who have experienced early childhood education enter Kindergarten ready to learn!
Whether you are a parent, a childcare provider, or an interested member of our community, this site has information, listings, and helpful links for you. Please visit us often as your resource for early education information.
REGISTRATION NUMBER: CH17758
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the State.
ELCAC'S WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY
