Our program admits preschool children, ages 3 to 5 years who do not yet qualify for kindergarten. We include and welcome children with special needs. To determine eligibility for Mike Choate Early Education Preschool Program, the family will be invited to an intake interview appointment. During this interview, thorough documentation is required including: birth records of all children in the household, proof of residency, documentation of all countable income for the month preceding certification, and required forms for each eligible child. When determining family size, documentation must be provided for each parent in the household who is responsible for the child. Every family must meet the income eligibility guidelines. The intake appointment is the time to see the center and get your questions answered about the early learning program. *All student records, including documentation, are confidential.

Admission Priorities

First priority – 3 & 4 year old children referred by Child Protective Services

Second priority– 3 & 4 year old children who are at risk, homelessness, Cash Aid Recipient, etc.

Third priority – eligible 4-year-old children Children enrolled in the program as 3 year olds Four-year-old children whose families have the lowest income ranking Children who have an Individual Educational Plan (IEP).

Fourth priority – eligible 3-year-old children Title 5: Four-year-old children are defined as children turning four on or before September 1 of that school year. Three-year-old children are defined as children turning three on or before September 1 of that school year.

Waitlist – If and when a waitlist is created, we will follow our admission priorities followed by income rating