University Park Elementary Officially Opens New VPK Head Start Outdoor Classroom

hands-on learning stations, featuring worms, binoculars and more

**University Park Elementary in Melbourne launched its new Voluntary PreKindergarten Head Start outdoor classroom on Friday.** (BPS image)

BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – University Park Elementary in Melbourne launched its new Voluntary PreKindergarten Head Start outdoor classroom on Friday.

University Park Elementary Principal Diaz says, “The best way to learn, is through play,” which is exactly what students will enjoy in the outdoor classroom.

There are hands-on learning stations, featuring worms, binoculars, a Sink Versus Float station, and more.

All stations are aligned with VPK Standards. This was made possible by the hard work of the facility, and staff, and through partnership with the Brevard Zoo.

Florida was one of the first states in the country to offer free prekindergarten for all 4-year-olds regardless of family income. Since the program began in 2005-06, more than 2.6 million children have benefited from the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (VPK).

Data collected by the Florida Department of Education shows that children who participate in VPK are much more ready for kindergarten than children who do not participate in VPK.

Parents can select from one of several program options available in different educational settings from private and public providers and specialized instructional services providers. Providers have flexibility to structure daily hours per week to meet the required number of instructional hours.

For an overview of VPK, check out the VPK Fact Sheet .