• What is Early Start/VPI?

      • The Early Start/VPI (Virginia Preschool Initiative) program is designed to reduce disparities among young children upon formal school entry and to reduce or eliminate risk factors that lead to early academic failure for children who turn 4 years old by September 30, 2025, who need an extra year to prepare for success in kindergarten. Screenings for both child and parent will take place starting in March. This screening will allow school officials to select children according to their needs.

      • Eligibility criteria include but is not limited to:

      •  

      • Income – Family income at or below 200% of the poverty level

      • Education – Parents or guardians are school dropouts

      • Homelessness

      • Disabilities or delays who are eligible for special education services

      • Language and Development Assessment of child

       

      • Which school will my child attend?

        The Suffolk Public School District has 11 elementary schools.  Students are not guaranteed placement in a home-zoned school. Please be advised that attendance zones may be modified to address school capacity issues.  Parents can view our zones by visiting our district’s website, www.spsk12.net.

      • How do I register my child for school?

        Parents cannot register their child for school until they receive notification that their child has been accepted into the Early Start/VPI program.  Registration of Early Start/VPI students is completed through your child's new school. Parents can start the registration process by gathering necessary documents before August. Please refer to the State Health Requirements to see which medical records your child will need. Specific documents must be presented in person prior to the completion of registration. For more information, visit our district’s website www.spsk12.net.

         

        • Is transportation provided for my child?

          Students who attend the Early Start/VPI program are provided free transportation to and from school. The Transportation Department determines bus routes, bus stops and pick-up/drop-off times. Prior to the start of each school year, this information is posted on our website and in the Suffolk News Herald.

           

          • What time does Early Start/VPI school start?

            All elementary schools start at 9:25 a.m.  Parents may drop students off after 9:00 a.m. For a complete listing of school start times, visit our district’s website www.spsk12.net.

             

            • Does Suffolk Public Schools offer before and after-school child care?

              A before and after-school child care program is available at each of the district’s elementary schools through independent contractors. Hours, program offerings, policies and costs are determined by the child care provider, not Suffolk Public School District. For more information, visit the district’s website www.spsk12.net.

               

              • What curriculum is used for Early Start/VPI students?

                The Suffolk Public Schools’ Early Start/VPI program uses the STREAMin3 curriculum which aligns with Virginia’s Early Learning and Development Standards.  It provides a measurable range of skills and knowledge essential for four-year-olds to be successful in kindergarten.

                 

                • When will I be notified whether my child has been accepted into the Early Start/VPI program?

                  Acceptance letters will be emailed by July 15, 2025.

                   

                  • Does my child have to be potty trained to participate in this program?

                    Your child is expected to be able to take care of self-help tasks such as dressing, undressing and toilet needs. If a child is not toilet-trained, the school staff will work with families to develop routines and procedures for home and school to help the child learn.

                     

                    • Is Early Start/VPI a full day or half a day?

                      All Early Start/VPI classes are a full day from 9:25 AM until 3:50 PM.

                       

                      • Can I pick up my child early a few days a week?

                        Suffolk Public Schools’ Early Start/VPI program operates just like a school classroom. Parents commit to sending their child to school for the complete 6.5 hour day and 180 days per year. Children can be withdrawn for being chronically tardy in the morning or being picked up prior to the end of the instructional day.

                         

                        • What happens if I move before the first day of school or during the school year?

                          You should notify Suffolk Public Schools as soon as possible.  There may not be available space if you move to another Suffolk Public Schools zone.  If you move outside of the city of Suffolk, your child is no longer eligible to attend the Early Start/VPI program.

                           

                          • Can I still apply if I am not a Suffolk resident?

                            To be eligible to apply for the Early Start program, you and your child must be residents of Suffolk.  In addition, your child must be four years old by September 30, 2025.

                             

                            • As an SPS employee, do I receive automatic enrollment in the Early Start program?

                              No, employees who are residents of Suffolk must go through the same application/eligibility process as any other family.