Education leaders said the pandemic has created a learning gap in children of all ages across Central Florida.

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Data shows nearly half the kindergartners in one county weren’t prepared for the first day last year.

Ivette Mendez said she is still seeing impacts of the pandemic in classrooms at Heart of a Child Learning Center, where she is director.

“I have some kids entering second grade, but they have kindergarten math skills,” she said.

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She said due to fewer children showing up in 2020, they aren’t hearing or receiving information the same way they have in the past.

“That interaction is vital,” said Lee Mendez with the Early Learning Coalition Chief Programming Office. “Children learn through play, so if they’re learning, having providers that are quality providers like day care, that high-quality early learning care can help them absorb the information.”

New numbers from the Department of Education show that it’s an issue that’s only getting worse.

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In Osceola County in 2020, the state said 40% of children under 5 were not prepared for kindergarten.

In 2021, that jumped to nearly 50%.

“Children are having a very difficult time staying focused,” Lee Mendez said. “They are a little more apt with technology, but when it comes to sitting and staying focused and following directions, it’s huge.”

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Lee Mendez with the Early Learning Coalition wants to help so no child gets left behind this fall.

The coalition has open enrollment for free voluntary prekindergarten. To qualify, you must be a Florida resident either working 20 hours a week or be a full-time student.

The coalition also provides money for children to kindergarten and beyond.

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Mendez said the office will try to help however it can.

“A lot of times, people don’t apply for the services because they feel like they’re not able – ‘Somebody told me that I’m not going to qualify,’” she said. “We prefer that you contact us directly.”

Click here for information about the Voluntary PreK Program and how to qualify for assistance.

Click here for details on the School Readiness Child Care Financial Assistance.

Click here for more resources.

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