The 4C Head Start Palm Plaza VPK program in Kissimmee has been recognized by the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County for its exceptional instructional performance in Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program.

At a recent ceremony, the ELC honored 55 early learning programs in Osceola County for their outstanding classroom performance. Teachers Nicole Fenn and Raisa Santana from Palm Plaza VPK were on hand to accept the certificate.

VPK programs are evaluated in three instructional domains: Emotional Support, Classroom Organization, and Instructional Support. These assessments are conducted through live observations of classrooms filled with curious 4 and 5-year-old learners. This recognition highlights not only the teachers’ instructional excellence but also their strong commitment to early childhood development.

High-quality VPK instruction lays a foundation for long-term success by supporting school readiness, fostering critical and creative thinking, and helping children become future graduates and contributors to the workforce. These educators play an essential role in preparing children, not only for kindergarten but also for a brighter future.