Building Oral Language and Vocabulary in VPK Program Enhances Kindergarten Readiness

 The “Building Oral Language and Vocabulary in VPK” program has had a significant impact on kindergarten readiness by improving students’ oral language and vocabulary skills. Using iPads, children created electronic books related to the Connect4Learning curriculum and also contributed to class books linked to unit projects. Teachers received continuous professional development, coaching, and support to understand the principles of using writing to enhance oral language and vocabulary development, as well as the importance of creating electronic books. As a result, children improved their oral language, vocabulary, print knowledge, fine motor skills, and identity as writers and authors.

The program’s impact was evident, with 98% of children showing growth on the state assessment, the Star Early Literacy assessment tool. Additionally, 100% (73/73) of lead teachers reported through a post-training survey that the project positively influenced language and literacy development in their classrooms. The initiative also supported the purchase of high-quality children’s literature to enrich classroom libraries in 73 classrooms across the School District of Palm Beach County.

Over the years, the program has evolved, focusing on collaboration with participating schools to create electronic books for classroom and home use. The program has also expanded professional development, coaching, and support for classroom teachers and instructional support staff to ensure its ongoing success in promoting language and literacy development.

The “Building Oral Language and Vocabulary in VPK” program is a great example of how innovative approaches to early childhood education can significantly impact children’s readiness for kindergarten and long-term academic success.

Building Oral Language and Vocabulary in VPK is funded in partnership with PNC Foundation as part of the State of Florida’s Education Foundation Matching Grant Program through the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations. Thanks to these collaborative partners’ thought leadership and generosity, the program is helping our young authors within the School District of Palm Beach County Grow up Great!