Henrico Schools' preschool application period opens

After being halted to help stem the spread of coronavirus, the application process for HCPS’ 2020-21 Early Learning Preschool is back on track with the help of virtual technology. The application window is open through May 31.

Early Learning Preschool is designed to provide a high-quality preschool environment for children who live in Henrico County and who will be 4 years old by Sept. 30, 2020.

The application process includes five steps:

• parents or guardians submit an online pre-application for their child at henricoschools.us/preschool;
• they complete a paper application packet, by downloading it at HCPS’ preschool page and printing it (or school officials will mail a copy if necessary);
• they assemble all required documents (a complete list is available at henricoschools.us/preschool);
• they schedule an online meeting with an HCPS preschool staff member through the preschool page online (this requires creating or having a Google account, in order to participate in the meeting).
• school officials mail “conditional acceptance," waitlist, or "not eligible" letters in July; those who receive the conditional acceptance letter will be required to attend a preschool acceptance event, closer to the start of school, to show all required documents in person.

Children are not admitted on a first-come, first-served basis, and are not guaranteed acceptance into the program. Families of children with special needs are encouraged to apply; if children require special accommodations, families should notify school staff members when scheduling the appointment.

There is no cost for the program for families, and transportation will be provided for preschool students.

For details, visit henricoschools.us/preschool, call (804) 328-8104 or email preschool@henrico.k12.va.us.