Pre-Kindergarten in Montgomery County
About Pre-K
Every child in Montgomery County, Maryland deserves a strong start – and the years leading up to Kindergarten are some of the most important. Quality Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) experiences lay the foundation for school success, lifelong learning, and healthy development, but only if every family can access them.
Pre-K provides eligible 3- and 4-year-old children with free, high-quality early learning opportunities that help prepare them for Kindergarten. In Montgomery County, Pre-K is offered through both Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and participating community-based child care programs.
Eligibility for Free Pre-K
Maryland offers free Pre-K for eligible 3- and 4-year-old children. Based on your child’s age and your family’s income or other qualifying factors, you can be eligible under Tier I or Tier II.
Tier I
Eligible 3- and 4-year-old children can attend free Pre-K if their family has a gross annual household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or if they are experiencing homelessness.
Tier II
Children who are 4 years old may qualify if their family has a gross annual household income that is above 300% but not more than 450% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Eligible Tier II families may receive high-quality, Pre-K at a subsidized cost based on a sliding fee scale.
Pre-K Cost Calculator
Maryland State Department of Education’s Pre-K Cost Calculator can help estimate your family’s potential Pre-K tuition based on your household size, income, and your child’s age.
Understanding Pre-K
| MCPS Pre-K | Community-based Pre-K Programs | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can enroll? | Eligible Tier I 3- and 4-year-olds | Eligible Tier I 3- and 4-year-old children and Tier II 4-year-old children (program offerings vary by provider) |
| Setting | Elementary schools | Licensed child care centers and family child care homes |
| Schedule | Full-day school day or part-day | May offer full-day and extended-day options |
| Cost | Free for eligible Tier I families | Free for eligible Tier I families; Tier II families may pay a subsidized cost based on a sliding fee scale |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MCPS Pre-K and community-based Pre-K?
MCPS Pre-K is offered in elementary schools, while community-based Pre-K is offered in licensed child care centers and family child care homes. Community-based programs may also offer full-day and extended-day care, depending on the provider.
How do I apply for Pre-K?
Application requirements and timelines vary depending on whether you are applying to an MCPS or community-based Pre-K program. Visit the respective links above to learn more about each option or contact Child Care Support Services for help with the application process.
What documents will I need to apply?
Most programs require documents such as proof of child’s age, proof that you live in Montgomery County, immunization records, and income verification documentation. Additional requirements may vary by program.
Can my child attend Pre-K if I work full time?
Many community-based Pre-K programs offer full-day and extended-day options that may better fit working families’ schedules. Program hours vary by provider.
What if my family doesn't qualify for free Pre-K?
Some 4-year-olds may qualify for Tier 2 Pre-K, which offers high-quality Pre-K at a reduced cost based on a sliding fee scale. You can also explore other child care and financial assistance programs available through this website.
My child has a disability or developmental delay. Can they attend Pre-K?
Yes. Children with disabilities are encouraged to apply for Pre-K. Additional supports and services may be available based on your child’s needs.
My child is learning English. Can they attend Pre-K?
Yes. Children who are learning English are welcome in Pre-K programs. Early learning environments help children build language, social, and school readiness skills.
How does Pre-K prepare my child for Kindergarten?
Pre-K helps children build early literacy, math, language, social-emotional, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning and play, helping them enter Kindergarten ready to learn.
Can I visit a Pre-K program before enrolling?
Yes. Many community-based Pre-K programs encourage families to schedule a tour or speak with staff before enrolling. Contact the program directly to learn about available tour opportunities.
What's the difference between child care and Pre-K?
Child care provides care and early learning for children from birth through age 5 and often offers full-day, year-round schedules. Pre-K is an early education program for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds that helps prepare children for Kindergarten. Some child care programs also offer Pre-K, allowing families to receive both early education and child care in one location.
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