Fordham Early Learning Academy
A dedicated public early learning campus within Marion County Public Schools, serving PreK through 2nd grade at 4000 W Anthony Road, Ocala.
4000 W Anthony Road, Ocala, FL 34475 • (352) 236-0508
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What Makes Fordham Unique
Fordham Early Learning Academy is not a typical elementary school — it is a purpose-built early learning campus. Rather than housing kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade alongside younger students, Fordham is specifically designed and staffed for children in their earliest years of formal education: PreK through 2nd grade.
This dedicated focus allows the entire school environment — its physical spaces, staffing model, routines, and culture — to be optimized for young learners. Students at Fordham are not sharing a hallway with older elementary students, which can create a more age-appropriate and nurturing school climate.
Fordham is part of the Marion County Public Schools district, which means it is a free public school option for eligible Marion County families.
Grades Served
Pre-Kindergarten
Kindergarten
First Grade
Second Grade
Marion County Public Schools Enrollment
As a Marion County Public Schools campus, enrollment at Fordham follows district procedures. The general enrollment process is outlined below, though details may change — always confirm with the school or district.
- 1
Confirm your child's age eligibility: PreK students are typically 4 years old by September 1; Kindergarten students are typically 5 by September 1.
- 2
Contact Fordham Early Learning Academy at (352) 236-0508 or visit the Marion County Public Schools website for current open enrollment dates and any school-specific requirements.
- 3
Gather required documents: typically proof of age (birth certificate), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), immunization records (Florida Form 680), and physical exam records.
- 4
Complete the district enrollment form and submit with required documents.
- 5
Confirm transportation arrangements if applicable — ask the school about bus route availability for your address.
VPK — Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten
What is VPK?
Florida's Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program is a free, high-quality pre-kindergarten experience available to all Florida 4-year-olds. It is designed to prepare children for kindergarten by building foundational literacy, math, and social skills.
VPK at Fordham
Many Marion County public school PreK programs participate in VPK. Families interested in using a VPK certificate at Fordham Early Learning Academy should contact the school at (352) 236-0508 to confirm current VPK participation and available slots. VPK eligibility is managed through the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County.
What to Expect
Families enrolling at Fordham Early Learning Academy can generally expect a school environment tailored entirely to young learners. Because all students are in grades PreK–2nd, the social and academic climate is calibrated for children in the foundational years of development.
Marion County Public Schools follows Florida state academic standards. For specific details about curriculum, classroom structure, after-school programs, or special education services at Fordham, contact the school directly at (352) 236-0508 or visit the MCPS website.
Transportation
Marion County Public Schools provides school bus transportation for eligible students based on distance from school and other criteria. Contact Fordham Early Learning Academy at (352) 236-0508 or the MCPS Transportation Department to confirm whether your address is within a bus route zone for this campus. The school is located at 4000 W Anthony Road, Ocala, FL 34475.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades does Fordham Early Learning Academy serve?
Fordham Early Learning Academy serves students in PreK (Pre-Kindergarten) through 2nd grade. It is a purpose-built early learning campus within the Marion County Public Schools system.
Where is Fordham Early Learning Academy located?
Fordham Early Learning Academy is located at 4000 W Anthony Road, Ocala, FL 34475. You can contact the school at (352) 236-0508.
Is Fordham Early Learning Academy a public school?
Yes. Fordham Early Learning Academy is a public school operating within the Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) district. There is no tuition for enrolled students who meet standard public school eligibility requirements.
How do I enroll my child at Fordham Early Learning Academy?
Enrollment for Marion County Public Schools is handled through the MCPS district. For PreK enrollment, families should contact the school at (352) 236-0508 or visit the Marion County Public Schools website for current enrollment procedures, required documents, and open enrollment dates.
Does Fordham Early Learning Academy offer VPK (Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten)?
Many Marion County public school PreK programs include VPK, which is Florida's free pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds. Contact Fordham Early Learning Academy at (352) 236-0508 or the Marion County Public Schools district office to confirm current VPK availability at this campus.