More questions? Need help with enrollment? Call or text 713-589-8767.
How to Enroll
You can enroll your child in pre-K starting in the spring. To get the best chance of enrolling in your top choice school, start the process as early as possible.
You have plenty of options when it comes to finding a high-quality pre-K near you. And it’s completely free if you meet income or language requirements. Before you choose a school, find out if you qualify for free pre-K and what your options are.
Step 1: Find out if you qualify for free pre-K
You could qualify for FREE pre-K if you are eligible. To find out, take the eligibility quiz.
Step 2: Find your program
If you qualify for free pre-K and live anywhere in Greater Houston or Harris County, there’s a free, quality pre-K program near you. Scroll down to see information on each district and Head Start program below, which both offer free pre-K. Don’t know which district you’re zoned to?
Type your address into our map to see schools nearby.
Note: If you don’t qualify for free pre-K, you still have options! Check below if your district offers a tuition program. You can also find more information below on private pre-K programs.
Step 3: Make a list of your favorite schools
Think about your needs as a family, whether that’s half-day or full-day options, aftercare, a bus service, school meals or programs for learning English.
Note: Every school is different, and their times and offerings can change, especially during the pandemic. Once you have your list, call the school or visit their website to double-check the details.
Step 4: Gather your documents
To be able to show that you meet one or more of these criteria, you’ll need to fill out some paperwork. No one will ask you or your child about your citizenship status. This paperwork is so that we can get you approved for free pre-K and all children and families are welcome!
Find out what documents you need to get started.
Step 5: Enroll your child in pre-K!
You can enroll online or call your district to enroll. In some cases, you can make an appointment to enroll in-person.
Note: Every school district has a different process for enrollment. If you get overwhelmed, don’t worry. There’s a dedicated call center for helping you understand how it all works. (And we speak Spanish!)
Questions? Need help with your enrollment application? Call or text 713-589-8767.
I want to learn more about how to enroll in:
Public school pre-k
Every public school district offers a free pre-K program for 4-year-olds that qualify. Learn more about your district's pre-K offerings and how to enroll below.
head start pre-K
Head Start offers free pre-K programs. The following programs have Head Start Centers, as well as Early Head Start for younger students too! If you are interested in enrolling your child in a Head Start program, you can look here to find Head Start programs near you.
Private Pre-K
There are a variety of private pre-K providers. Below is information on pre-K programs offered by the YMCA. For a more comprehensive list of private pre-K options, you can visit Collaborative for Children’s website by clicking below. (Note: While these programs are not free, you may qualify for financial aid that can help pay for a private pre-K program. Click here to learn more about financial aid offered by Workforce Solutions.)