Early Education Balanced With Christian Values
Free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) in Lake Nona
Helping children develop pre-reading, pre-math, language, & social skills before kindergarten.
1:10 Classroom Ratio
More personal attention for
every child, every day.
Family-Owned
Big enough to excel.
Small enough to know every family.
Parent Video Access
Peace of mind is
only a tap away.
Free VPK Program
A Bright Start to Kindergarten Readiness
Our free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program in Lake Nona helps eligible 4-year-olds take their next big step with confidence. In a caring classroom environment, children build pre-reading, pre-math, language, and social skills through structured instruction, daily routines, and meaningful connections. VPK is available to Florida children who are 4 on or before September 1.
Monday-Friday: 7:00am-6:00pm
A Preparatory Approach to Florida’s Free VPK Program
From Preschool to Kindergarten Success
VPK helps bridge the gap between preschool and kindergarten with focused instruction in pre-reading, pre-math, language development, listening skills, and social growth. Children practice independence, following directions, working with classmates, and gaining confidence in a classroom setting.
Take a Tour of Our Academy
Meet our team, explore our classrooms, and experience our family-centered approach.
540 Hours of Advanced Instructional Learning
Our VPK program includes 540 hours of instruction throughout the school year, providing children with a strong foundation before kindergarten. Through structured lessons, hands-on activities, classroom routines, and teacher-guided support, students build the early academic and social skills needed for school success.
VPK Eligibility & Enrollment
Florida’s VPK program is free for children who live in Florida and are 4 years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. Families are welcome to contact us to learn more about eligibility, available schedules, required documents, and next steps for enrollment.
Classroom Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 – 8:30 | Arrival, Morning Feeding & Nap |
| 8:30 – 9:00 | Diapering & Handwashing |
| 9:00 – 9:15 | Circle Time: Prayer, Weather, Story Time, Music, Spanish/Sign Language |
| 9:15 – 9:30 | Outdoor Play |
| 9:30 – 9:45 | Handwashing |
| 9:45 – 10:00 | Literacy: Books, ABCs & Songs |
| 10:00 – 10:15 | Rotations: Teacher Rocking Station, Soft Toys, Manipulatives, Tummy Time |
| 10:15 – 11:15 | Diapering, Handwashing, Feeding |
| 11:30 – 12:30 | Nap Time |
| 12:30 – 12:45 | Literacy Circle: Picture Cards & Puppets |
| 12:45 – 1:00 | Colors & Shapes Activities |
| 1:00 – 1:45 | Diapering, Handwashing, Feeding |
| 1:45 – 2:00 | Story Time |
| 2:00 – 2:45 | Rotations: Teacher Rocking Station, Soft Toys, Manipulatives, Tummy Time |
| 2:45 – 3:45 | Nap Time |
| 3:45 – 4:45 | Diapering, Handwashing, Feeding |
| 5:00 – 5:30 | Story & Music/Movement, Tummy Time |
| 5:30 – 6:00 | Snack/Bottle Feeding/Diapering & Dismissal |
Diapering occurs every 2 hours and as needed for each child.
Fueling Bright Beginnings
Our chef prepares nutritious meals onsite with little taste buds and healthy choices in mind. Weekly tuition includes breakfast, lunch, and one snack, with menus thoughtfully balanced across proteins, grains, fruits, and vegetables to keep children nourished and ready for the day.
Discover Our Early Learning Programs in Lake Nona, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
We use Frog Street, a state-approved, nationally recognized curriculum for children ages 2-5, designed to support school readiness through structured, developmentally appropriate learning.
For our infants through 23 months, we use Lillio powered by FunShine, which focuses on early development, nurturing care, and age-appropriate learning experiences.
We ask parents to provide two full changes of clothes, including underwear and shoes, in case of accidents. These items are kept in your child’s classroom in his/her personalized cubby.
Each Monday, please bring a fitted sheet and blanket for nap time. These items will be sent home every Friday for laundering.
For infants, parents are required to provide prepared bottles, food, diapers, and wipes, as meals are not provided in the infant classroom.
Our tuition includes full-day care from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and snack), and all curriculum materials and classroom supplies. Everything your child needs for a full day of learning, care, and engagement is included.
Yes, we offer two schedules: Mon/Wed/Fri and Tues/Thurs. Students may attend the entire day from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm on the part-time days selected.
Yes, we offer a 10% sibling discount on the oldest child’s tuition.
We use the Procare Parent App to keep families connected throughout the day. Parents receive updates and can communicate directly with both teachers and administration as needed.
Yes, parents receive photos and updates throughout the day using our ProCare Parent App. Photos are shared for children who have a signed photo release form on file.
Yes, we offer live camera streaming through PB&J TV for families who would like additional visibility into their child’s day. This service is available for an additional weekly fee.
Each day is thoughtfully structured to balance learning, play, and care.
Children begin with breakfast, followed by circle time, which includes chapel and Bible stories. We then introduce the day’s learning goals before transitioning into small group rotations.
Students rotate through 4-5 learning centers focused on literacy and math skills, including dedicated time in a teacher-led small-group setting (one of the ways we ensure each child receives individualized attention!). Our daily schedule is designed to support academic growth, social development, and overall well-being.
Throughout the day, children also enjoy:
- Two outdoor play sessions (30 minutes each)
- Lunch and a 2-hour rest period
- Afternoon snack
- Music and movement activities
- STEAM-based learning experience
Our enrollment process is designed to ensure a smooth and prepared start for both children and families.
To complete enrollment, families must:
- Pay the one-time registration fee and annual supply fee
- Complete the enrollment application
- Watch the welcome orientation video
- Submit current immunization records
Once all items are completed, your child’s enrollment can be finalized.
The Bright Scholars Difference: Our 1:10 Teacher-to-Student Ratio
At Bright Scholars, our VPK classrooms are designed for more personal attention, stronger teacher connection, and better instructional support. With a 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio and class sizes limited to 20 Scholars per room, children receive the guidance they need to grow in confidence before kindergarten.
Exceeding State Standards for Personalized Instruction
Our lower classroom ratios allow teachers to spend more time observing, guiding, and supporting each child. This helps students receive individualized attention during lessons, transitions, small groups, and hands-on activities throughout the day.
Small Class Sizes (Limited to 20 Scholars per Room)
By keeping class sizes limited, our teachers can create a more focused and supportive learning environment. Children benefit from stronger relationships, clearer routines, and more opportunities to participate, ask questions, and receive encouragement.
One-on-One Literacy & Math Readiness Assessments
Teachers monitor each child’s growth through literacy and math readiness assessments. These insights help us identify strengths, support developing skills, and prepare children for a smooth and confident transition into kindergarten.
Free VPK Learning Programs That Integrate S.T.E.A.M.
At Bright Scholars, we bring S.T.E.A.M. into the VPK experience through weekly projects, technology-supported learning, and hands-on exploration. Children build early problem-solving skills while exploring science, technology, engineering, art, and math in age-appropriate ways.
Weekly Science, Tech, Engineering, Art & Math Projects
VPK students participate in weekly S.T.E.A.M. projects that encourage curiosity, teamwork, and critical thinking. Through building, testing, creating, and exploring, children learn how to ask questions and solve problems with confidence.
Tech Integration: Interactive Tools for Early Digital Literacy
Technology is introduced with purpose and supervision. Children use interactive tools and age-appropriate software to reinforce early literacy, math, coordination, and classroom concepts while building comfort with digital learning.
Hands-On Exploration in Our Modern S.T.E.A.M. Lab
Our S.T.E.A.M. experiences help children learn by doing. Students explore materials, test ideas, create designs, and connect classroom lessons to real-world discovery in a way that feels exciting and memorable.
Comprehensive Character Education & Social Skills
Our teachers help VPK students grow beyond academics by building confidence, kindness, communication, and emotional awareness. Through daily routines, faith-based character lessons, group activities, and teacher guidance, children learn how to care for others, make thoughtful choices, and participate in a classroom community.
“The Greeting Circle” & Building Emotional Intelligence
Our day includes intentional moments for connection, including circle time routines that help children feel welcomed and ready to learn. Students practice listening, sharing, recognizing emotions, and building confidence in a supportive group setting.
Instilling Leadership, Honesty & Kindness on a Daily Basis
Teachers model and reinforce leadership, honesty, kindness, respect, and responsibility throughout the day. Through Bible stories, classroom jobs, conversations, and positive guidance, children learn how their choices affect others.
Collaborative Learning Centers to Foster Peer Relationships
VPK students build friendships through center rotations, group projects, dramatic play, and hands-on activities. These collaborative moments help children practice sharing, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and patience.
Transparency & Safety for Professional Families
Families need to feel confident while their children are at school. Bright Scholars supports parents’ peace of mind through secure systems, classroom visibility, strong communication, clean routines, and daily essentials that help busy families feel connected and supported.
PBJTV Live Streaming: Watch Your VPK Student Thrive in Real-Time
Families who want added visibility can use optional PBJTV live streaming for an additional weekly fee. This secure feature gives parents a real-time window into classroom routines, activities, and special moments throughout the day.
Secure, High-Tech Campus Minutes from Narcoossee Rd
Our Lake Nona campus is designed with safety and convenience in mind, with secure entry systems, modern classroom features, and thoughtful routines that help protect students while supporting a smooth school-day experience.
Health & Nutrition: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Included
Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included to help keep VPK students nourished and ready to learn. Our meal program supports busy families while giving children the energy they need for instruction, play, and exploration.
Strategically Located for the Lake Nona Lifestyle
Bright Scholars is designed for families who want strong early education close to the places they live, work, and commute. Our free VPK program supports busy Lake Nona families with a preparatory academy experience near growing neighborhoods, medical centers, and everyday routes.
The Preferred VPK for Laureate Park & VillageWalk Residents
Families in Laureate Park and VillageWalk can find a VPK program focused on kindergarten readiness, faith-based values, hands-on learning, and meaningful parent communication. Bright Scholars offers a warm, structured environment where children feel supported and prepared.
Just Minutes South of Lake Nona Medical City
Our academy is conveniently located for families connected to Lake Nona Medical City, including nearby healthcare, education, and professional communities. Parents can keep VPK close to daily routines while children build school-ready skills in a nurturing setting.
Easy Access for Families in Eagle Creek & Storey Park
For families in Eagle Creek, Storey Park, and surrounding Lake Nona neighborhoods, Bright Scholars offers a convenient VPK option with strong academics, caring teachers, secure systems, and a family-centered classroom experience.
Why Lake Nona Parents Choose Our Preparatory Academy
Families choose Bright Scholars because our VPK program blends structured academics with warmth, character, and confidence-building experiences. Children are prepared for kindergarten through research-based curriculum, intentional routines, and a school culture rooted in Love. Learn. Laugh.
Research-Based FrogStreet Pre-K Curriculum
Our VPK program uses FrogStreet Pre-K, a research-based curriculum designed to support literacy, math, language, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Lessons are purposeful, age-appropriate, and built to help children grow across key learning domains.
Seamless Transition to Elementary School
VPK helps children practice the habits and skills they need for kindergarten, including listening, following directions, working with peers, early reading and math, and classroom independence. Our goal is to make the next step feel exciting, not overwhelming.
Founded & Owned by Our Family for Your Family
Bright Scholars was created by a family who wanted early education to feel personal, joyful, and academically strong. That heart still guides the academy today, shaping a VPK experience where children are known, challenged, and cared for.
Learn More About Free Voluntary VPK in Lake Nona, FL
Ready to explore VPK for your child? Contact us to learn about eligibility, schedules, enrollment steps, and how our preparatory academy helps eligible 4-year-olds build confidence for kindergarten.
Loved by Scholars & Their Families
Hear from families who have experienced our welcoming environment, meaningful communication, and commitment to helping every child thrive.
Read More Reviews
My daughter has been attending Bright Scholars since she was two years old, and now at four she is in Ms. Hyre’s VPK class. We truly cannot say enough wonderful things about her. My daughter comes home every day excited to share something new she has learned. It brings me so much joy to see her thriving and growing. I know she will be more than ready for kindergarten thanks to Ms. Hyre and the amazing support from the Bright Scholars team. Thank you to the entire Bright Scholars family! We love you all!
Bright Scholars has been a true blessing to my family. As a first time mom who was really worried about sending her kid to daycare when she had to go back to work, this was the best place we could have sent him. They truly make you feel like your child is their family and the teachers are truly amazing. We have been so lucky to have formed so many connections with teachers there. Everyone knows my childs name, even if he has never been in their class and they always make him smile when we walk in. They truly have a passion for children and do everything in their power to ensure your child is treated just the way you would treat them at home. They also do such a wonderful job of catering to your specific child and working with you to ensure you feel comfortable with the care they are receiving.
Making the decision of placing your child into a early learning center is not the easiest and most likely it is a very emotional decision as it was for us. Yet from the first time we stepped foot into Bright Scholars, we knew this would be the place for our little one. The owner and directors are hands on. The chef is always smiling. All the teachers know the kids by name, even if the kid isn’t in their classroom. And in my case, Mrs. Pina and Ms. Estrada have been a blessing to our family. Our little one has learned so much and enjoys her time in school. She talks about her teachers and all that they do. She expresses how much she cares of them. Mrs. Pina and Ms. Estrada even helped with the potty training. Within the second week of enrollment, my kid was potty trained.
The school itself has so many activities and special events where the family can join in.
We are loving our experience at Bright Scholars.
We absolutely love Bright scholars! My daughter has been attending since she was 3 months old and is now almost 4 years old. Not only is the curriculum outstanding but the activities the school plans for the kids and parents makes the learning environment so fun and more than what we could have ever expected. The staff is loving, caring, attentive, and has become like family over the years. It brings our family peace knowing our daughter is the best hands when we are at work. Our daughter truly loves going to school and is excelling so much for her age and we can’t thank Bright Scholars enough for that. Highly recommend this school!!
We have been with Bright Scholars since 2019 and wouldn’t go anywhere else. All 3 of my boys have attended this school. The staff is professional and reliable. The facility is always spotless. I love that they also have cameras in your child’s classroom so you can glance in. I love this school!!!
I have nothing but exceptional things to say about Bright Scholars Academy! My daughter’s morning VPK class with Ms. Gonzalez & Ms. Hernandez was sooo wonderful & instrumental in teaching her things and preparing her for Kindergarten. The methods they use to teach kids has made her love learning & I know she will truly miss her teachers and staff there. I am so happy we chose to put her in Bright Scholars & I love receiving updates throughout the day of her activities and all the cute things being done in the classroom. The teachers are so compassionate & understand with the children and you can see the love they have for their students! Thank you again for taking care of my baby.
