Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten
2026-2027 VPK Lottery Application
coming January 6, 2026.
VPK selection is done by a lottery system. The lottery applications will be accepted from January 6-January 30, with final selections taking place early February. Only Students selected will be contacted. If you have not been contacted by February 16th, then your child was not selected, and they will be placed on a waitlist.
Due to the high volume of lottery applications, it is advised that you make applications at other facilities, as well.
* Please note: Durbin Creek Elementary’s VPK program is a full day commitment and corresponding fees are required. See below for current school year information.
Durbin Creek Elementary’s VPK program provides a school readiness skills program, along with social/emotional development, in an environment that nurtures and encourages a lifelong love of learning. Students are chosen through a lottery system.
The VPK program is a class of up to 20 VPK students.
The classroom is headed by a highly qualified teacher, with a degree in the areas of early childhood, and one paraprofessional.
VPK Program details
o Child must be four years old on or before September 1st.
o 5-days a week, full-day* program, that matches the regular school calendar.
o Hours are 8:30 am – 2:30 pm M, T, Th, F and W 8:30 am – 1:30 pm.
o Fee for 2025-2026 is $700, paid monthly. The SJCSD VPK Program consists of the first three hours free with a wrap-around service fee for a full school day.
o Meals are not included, unless your child qualifies for the free/reduced fee.
To find out if your family is eligible for Free or Reduced Meal status, visit: https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/food/free/. The printable application shows the federal eligibility income chart.
o Transportation and Extended Day are NOT AVAILABLE to VPK students.
* Please note: Durbin Creek Elementary’s VPK program is a full day commitment and corresponding fees are required. Price updated on 5/29/2025 for the 2025-2026 school year.
VPK selection is done by a lottery system, with applications accepted in January and final selections taking place early February. All children not selected will be placed on a waitlist. Due to the high volume of lottery applications, it is advised that you make applications at other facilities, as well.
SJCSD is a contracted VPK provider. You have a choice in the selection of a VPK program that meets your needs. For other options click here to locate other VPK PROVIDERS or further questions, please contact:
Episcopal Children’s Services
8443 Baymeadows Rd. Suite 1
Jacksonville, FL 32256
VPK Department
(904)726-1500