Last verified: October 2026
What does School Readiness pay for in Pinellas?
It helps pay for child care from birth to age 12, including before- and after-school care, at providers that participate in the program.
That makes it the piece the K-12 scholarships leave out. Florida's scholarships cannot pay for aftercare, so a working parent whose child stays at school until 5:30 should ask whether the school is a School Readiness provider.
Who runs it locally?
The Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County, the same agency that oversees VPK in the county.
Eligibility turns on household income and whether parents are working or in school, so families planning a fall start should contact the coalition early.
What School Readiness does and doesn't cover
| Item | Covered | Not covered |
|---|---|---|
| Aftercare | At participating providers | Through the K-12 scholarships |
| Family share | A copay remains | Fully free care |
| Tuition | Child care fees | K-12 private school tuition |