The Early Learning Coalition of Polk County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that focuses on providing quality early education and care to the children and families of Polk County. Our vision and mission is to make sure that children enter school ready to succeed and eager to learn. The Coalition administers both School Readiness and the Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK) Programs in Polk County. The School Readiness Program was established in Florida by Statute 411.01 in 1999 to provide early education and care for income eligible children ages 0-5 preparing them to enter school eager to learn while their parents work or attend school. School age children up to age 11 are also served in after school and summer/holiday programs. The VPK program, established in Florida Statute 1002.51 in 2004, is free for all four year olds that live in Florida.