Prekindergarten
Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) offers a full-day Prekindergarten program.
The Pre-K4 program is at all 22 elementary schools, and the Early Learning Center, La Plata.
Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, CCPS will offer additional space in its Prekindergarten program for three-year-old students (Pre-K3). The Pre-K3 program will be available at the Early Learning Center (ELC), La Plata; ELC, Waldorf; Mary H. Matula and Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy elementary schools. All Charles County residents that meet the income eligibility requirements may apply. Learn more.
The goal of the Prekindergarten program is to prepare children socially, emotionally, physically, and academically for kindergarten and beyond.
You must apply for Pre-K4 at the school you are zoned for based on your home address.
School Change requests are NOT accepted for Pre-K4.
find your zoned school through School Locator
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Pre-K4 and Pre-K3?
To be considered for Pre-K4, a child must be 4 years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. To be considered for Pre-K3, a child must be 3 years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. The child must be a Charles County resident and all applicants must submit income verification.
Are all county children entitled to attend Pre-K4?
No. The Pre-K4 program is neither mandatory nor guaranteed. In accordance with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, first priority is given to students whose families meet the income eligibility for Tier I, are homeless or are in foster care, or have a current, active Individualized Education Plan (IEP). All Tier I students are admitted after verification. Tier II and Tier III students may be placed if slots exist after all Tier I students are placed. For a full description of the three application tiers, please see Pre-K4 Application Tiers below.
Are all county children entitled to attend Pre-K3?
No. Admission for three-year-old students is not guaranteed and spots are limited. All Charles County residents that meet the income eligibility requirements may apply. The household income must be 185% of the Federal Poverty Level or less to apply.
PRE-K3 Income Eligibility Guidelines
Is transportation provided for Pre-K4 and Pre-K3 students?
Yes, in most cases. Prekindergarten students ride the bus to and from school with other students from their school. If you qualify for Tier I and the Pre-K4 program at your home school is full at the time your child is accepted, you will be offered a placement at a different school. Transportation may be available.
Application Process
For questions about Prekindergarten, please contact:
Mrs. Beth Sorsby, M.Ed, NBCT
Specialist in Early Childhood
bsorsby@ccboe.com