IN THIS ISSUE:

 

Enrolling SR Children Enrolling

VPK The Coalition is happy to report that we are continuing to invite families off the wait list for School Readiness services. Over the next few weeks we plan to enroll approximately 250 children birth to 5-year-olds in child care programs throughout Pinellas County. Last week, our staff notified over 800 families with the opportunity to schedule appointments to determine eligibility for School Readiness scholarships. Please note, notifications are sent in large batches because not all families respond or meet eligibility requirements.

Don't forget, if you ever have questions regarding the eligibility of SR children in your care, please contact our Family Services Provider Line at 727-400-4411.
STEP UP Scholarships two

The Spring 2015 STEP UP Scholarship program is now accepting applications.  

 

STEP UP Scholarships provide assistance to directors, child care center teachers and family child care home providers who are pursuing an Associate's  Degree in Early Childhood Education at St. Petersburg College.

 

STEP UP Scholarship Application

  

DEADLINE: Applications are due November 17, 2014

 

Click here for more information about STEP UP Scholarships.  If you have any questions, please contact Angela Loring at 727-400-4435 or [email protected].    

 

QRIS: REACH for the Gold Three

The Coalition's Quality Rating Improvement System, REACH for the Gold, is now accepting applications for the next cohort of providers. This program assists licensed School Readiness providers in becoming Gold Seal Accredited. REACH is a voluntary program that provides coaching, technical assistance and grants to support quality enhancements or accreditation fees.

Click here for more information about REACH for the Gold. If you have any questions about this program, please contact Sima Saffary at 727-400-4471 or [email protected].


Deadline: Applications are due November 14, 2014 
Celebrate Literacy Week, Florida! Four

Mark your calendars, Celebrate Literacy Week, Florida! 2015 is scheduled for the week of January 26- 30, 2015. The objective of this week long event is to raise awareness of the importance of literacy and promote the enjoyment of reading for children and adults of all ages.

Simultaneous Reading Activity
Once again all providers are encouraged to participate in the simultaneous reading activity. Last year, many providers throughout Pinellas County participate in this activity. Coalition staff and Board members visited several centers and FCCH providers as guest readers during this activity. Details around this event have not yet been announced by Florida's Office of Early Learning. We will keep you posted!

Cozy Corner Reading Nook Photo Contest - NEW

NEW this year, providers may enter the Celebrate Literacy Week! "Reading Accelerates Success" photo contest. Providing students with a welcoming, exciting and ever changing reading nook is a key focal point in every early childhood classroom. Reading nooks provide students with opportunities to read and explore the elements of reading in a "special" location. Providers wishing to participate in the contest must send in two photos of their classroom's "reading nook" for a chance to win a gift basket filled with useful resources for your classroom and center. First, second and third place winners will be awarded. Please click on the links below for contest information, entry form and photo narrative form.  

 

Photo submission deadline: November 28, 2014.

 

Contest Information