Unlocking Potential: A Guide to Early Learning Coalition of Duval Programs and Services
The Early Learning Coalition of Duval (ELC of Duval) is dedicated to providing high-quality early education and support services to families in Duval County. Recognizing that early childhood experiences are foundational for future success, the ELC of Duval offers a range of programs and services designed to foster children's development and prepare them for kindergarten. This article will explore the various initiatives available, aiming to guide parents and caregivers in making informed decisions about their child's early learning journey.
Duval Early Head Start: Nurturing Young Learners
Duval Early Head Start provides high-quality educational services to children while simultaneously providing life-changing support services to families. The program deeply believes that all children can learn and succeed when the needs of the whole child are addressed. Designed to foster social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language & literacy development in children, it ensures that they are prepared for Kindergarten. This is done in partnership with teachers and parents, recognizing that parents are their children’s first teachers. The Early Head Start Child Care Partnerships serves 100 children (6 weeks up to 3 years old) and their families.
Navigating Child Care Options: Resources and Guidance
Choosing a child care program is one of the most important decisions parents make. With more than 400 programs in Duval County, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) maintains a database of child care and early learning providers. Contacting Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) to discuss individual priorities is recommended.
Guiding Stars of Duval: Identifying Quality Programs
The Guiding Stars of Duval (GSOD) is a tool for families to identify the quality of early learning and child care programs and help guide decision-making. Programs are measured on important indicators and standards such as teacher education and training, teacher-child interactions, child screenings, and curriculum. The right early learning program helps children learn new skills and develop socially.
Free Prekindergarten Program: Preparing for School
A free prekindergarten program for 4- and 5-year-olds who reside in Florida, participating children must be 4 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year. It is a program funded by the United Way.
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School Readiness Program: Supporting Working Families
The School Readiness (SR) program provides financial assistance to eligible families for early learning and child care so they can become financially self-sufficient.
Applying for School Readiness: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Initial Online Application: Apply to the SR Waitlist by completing an initial online application and uploading the required documents.
- SR Waitlist Placement: Once the initial SR application is approved, clients are placed on the SR Waitlist. This may take several weeks or months.
Understanding Potential Changes to Public Benefits
Families should connect with CareerSource Florida to understand how any public benefits they receive may change based on their income.
Upcoming Changes to SR Copayments
Effective July 1, 2025, the federal government requires changes to the SR copayments. At eligibility or redetermination, the ELC of Duval will assess households one copayment and assign that copayment to only one child. The copayment will be a percentage of household income and based on authorized hours of care (full- or part-time).
Managing Your Account: Access and Updates
If you can’t remember your username, please contact the ELC of Duval at 904-208-2044. Please select “Forgot My Password” beneath the “Log On” button.
Reporting Household Changes
Families must report changes to their household within ten (10) days of the change. This includes changes to income, employment, education status, household size, and permanent or temporary disability. Families must also report if their child stops attending their child care provider.
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Document Submission: Utilizing Technology
Parents and guardians can use their iPhone or Android phone to scan required documents. Search how to scan a document on your phone and instructions will be provided.
Supporting Children with Diverse Abilities: Intervention Services
The Warm-Line is a free and confidential service for families with concerns about their child’s growth and development or behavior, classroom accommodations, and intervention strategies. Intervention supports the right that all children can participate in early learning and care settings alongside their same-age peers regardless of their diverse abilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990. Children benefit from intervention services, as do providers.
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