School Readiness (Child Care Assistance)

Help with child care costs for Lee parents who work or study and meet the income test. The subsidy goes straight to the center, church program or school aftercare they use.

Last verified: October 2026. Checked against Step Up For Students' 2026-27 award tables, handbooks and purchasing guides.

Who administers School Readiness in Fort Myers and Cape Coral?

The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida, using state and federal child care funds. It also keeps the list of providers that accept School Readiness.

Why does School Readiness matter to private school families?

The K-12 scholarships don't cover aftercare or a younger sibling's care. School Readiness can, if the family qualifies and the provider participates, so if a Lee school runs aftercare, ask whether it takes School Readiness.

School Readiness (Child Care Assistance): what it is and isn't
What it is	What it isn't
Help with child care costs	A tuition scholarship
Income-based	Universal

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