OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Over 200 families attended the first edition of the Truckin’ It to Preschool event, much to the relief of Carrie Theall, CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County.
“We were hoping to see that many for our first-time event, but with a first-time event, you never know how it’s going to go,” she said. “Now, we’re just looking forward to watching it grow more and more each year.”
Held at the Silver Springs Shores Community Center on February 1, 2025, the event introduced parents to free Volunteer Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) programs for their four-year-olds.
“We had this event set up so we could highlight different childcare providers that offer volunteer pre-k, as well as our school system,” said Theall. “We wanted to give parents a chance to come in and sign up with our staff and get their child ready to start VPK.”
Parents also participated in the Help Me Grow Books, Balls, and Blocks activity area, where they could complete free developmental milestone screenings for their children.
While parents explored educational opportunities, children were captivated by emergency and construction vehicles.
“We invited construction and emergency vehicles to the event,” said Theall. “The drivers and operators of the vehicles were there to help explain to the children how everything worked… it was great to see the kids enjoying that experience.”
Wendy Williams, Community Relations Director for the Early Learning Coalition, noted the wide geographic reach of attendees.
“We had families from Dunnellon, Marion Oaks, and all throughout different areas of Ocala,” she said. “That’s really what we wanted to highlight: the equal options available, so we’re excited to see families from throughout the county attend.”
Theall was equally pleased with the event’s variety of activities.
“Some families were there to enjoy the books, balls, and blocks; others were there because they loved the trucks, and many attended to figure out their next step in the pre-k experience,” she said.
She also praised the event’s location.
“It was great to have it out at the Shores community center; we had many play areas, parks, and recreation facilities that engaged children in outdoor activities.”
To expand accessibility, Theall said the event would rotate locations annually.
“We don’t want to just focus on one part of the county; we plan to rotate around to serve parents and childcare providers all over Marion County,” she said.
Williams confirmed they are still securing next year’s venue.
Theall reminded parents that enrollment remains open.
“They can visit the office, call us, or go online; we’re here to provide information on enrolling their child in childcare and the VPK program,” she said.
What is the Early Learning Coalition?
The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County is a non-profit organization that administers school readiness programs, including VPK. It also provides parenting resources, literacy support, and training to prepare children for elementary school.