dab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDapproved/DCPS/FAQsEarly Childhood Education: Preschool (PS), Pre-Kindergarten (PK) and Head Start6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Early Childhood Education: Preschool (PS), Pre-Kindergarten (PK) and Head StartA Guide for Parents12640500000001264050000000sang.yoonDCPSPreschool (PS) and Pre-Kindergarten (PK)/Head StartPreschool (PS) and Pre-Kindergarten (PK)/Head StartPreschool (PS) and Pre-Kindergarten (PK)/Head Start<p><span style=" color: #ffffff;">*</span></p>fca3c8c609756210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD0a08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdfVietnameseanchorNA0f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____http://www.earlystagesdc.orgEarly Stages CenteranchorNA1708ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____http://dcps.dc.gov/DCPS/help#12contact our placement teamanchorNA1a08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdfFrenchanchorNA1b08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____803cd3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD649df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDresidentanchorNA1f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____567ded9a93874210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD4ae7d88eecd56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDOpen HouseanchorNA2f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____a3a3ca1c33256210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDLearn more.anchorNA3908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard A.pdfChineseanchorNA3f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____these highlighted schools3729259d36687210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRDanchorNA4908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdfFrenchanchorNA4f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____5f56f79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDReggio Emilia-inspiredanchorNA5018ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____9d58ecb42dd22210VgnVCM100000416f0201RCRDef5df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDDCPS Preschool / Pre-K / Head Start LotteryanchorNA5908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdfVietnameseanchorNA5f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____School DirectoryanchorNA6018ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____9d58ecb42dd22210VgnVCM100000416f0201RCRDef5df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDView Frequently Asked Questions about preschool / pre-k / Head Start enrollment.anchorNA6908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW info.pdf<span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Information</span>anchorNA6f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____effad3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD96f82f7e58d26210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRDArts, Health, and Physical EducationanchorNA7908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdfVietnameseanchorNA7f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____a3a3ca1c33256210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRDDual language/Spanish immersionanchorNA8908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdfChineseanchorNA8f08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____072bd3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD96f82f7e58d26210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRDPre-KanchorNA9908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdfFrenchanchorNAa908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - 2011_ECTW_flier_back.ppt- Edited.pdfSpanishanchorNAaa08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Click here to watch the conversation between Miriam Calderon, Director of Early Childhood Education, and parents.e11d77581d749210VgnVCM2000002a05c90aRCRDanchorNAb908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdfChineseanchorNAc908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW calendar.pdf<span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Calendar </span>anchorNAd608ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Spanish-Early-Childhood-Family-Guide.pdfDownload the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards - Espaņol.anchorNAd908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Letter to parents Early Childhood Transition Week- Edited.pdfSpanishanchorNAe608ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdfDownload the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards.anchorNAe908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/Transition Week letter for parents.pdf<span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Letter to Parents</span>anchorNAee08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Montessori2fb04fa52e52f210VgnVCM1000002905c90aRCRDanchorNAf018ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Download all enrollment forms.529bc5e318fa7210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRDanchorNAf608ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdfFamily Guide to Kindergarten Readiness StandardsanchorNAf908ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Early Childhood Transition Week Edited.pdfSpanishanchorNAfe08ed115ea35310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____6ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____http://dcatlas.dcgis.dc.gov/schoolprofile/School ProfilesanchorNA190c0259df4ba210VgnVCM1000002905c90a____Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards<p>The <a onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdf" alt="Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards" id="static_file~~">Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards</a> is an important resource about the early childhood grades and will help you in supporting your young child throughout his/her entire school experience. </p>
<p>This guide focuses on what children, ages three to five, in preschool or pre-kindergarten programs should know and be able to do by the time they enter Kindergarten.</p>
<p><a onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Early-Childhood-Parent_Guide_Final.pdf" alt="Download the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards." id="static_file~~">Download the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards.</a></p>
<p><a onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Spanish-Early-Childhood-Family-Guide.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/DCPS-Spanish-Early-Childhood-Family-Guide.pdf" alt="Download the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards - Espaņol." id="static_file~~">Download the Family Guide to Kindergarten Readiness Standards - Espaņol.</a></p>76ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____259cb0574ce5b210VgnVCM2000002a05c90a____Preschool and Pre-K Seats Remain<p>Still looking for a PS or PK spot for your child this year? There are still PS and PK seats remaining at many schools across the city. If you are interested in a PS or PK spot, please <a href="http://dcps.dc.gov/DCPS/help#12">contact our placement team</a> at 202-478-5738.</p>106ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____45c8c3419fbe9210VgnVCM2000002a05c90a____What is Early Childhood Transition Week?<p>The first week of school for all preschool and pre-kindergarten children is known as Early Childhood Transition Week. The schedule for this week is structured to provide time for parents and teachers to meet before children begin school. As well, children will have the opportunity to adjust to their new teacher and classroom environment in a small group setting.<br>
<br>
<b>Meetings with your child?s teacher: August 22-24<br>
</b><br>
The first three days are set aside for teacher and parent meetings in the child?s home or new classroom. Children will not attend school for the first three days of the week. Your child?s teacher will contact you to set up a meeting for one of these three days. At this meeting you will discuss goals for your child and set expectations for the upcoming school year. </p>
<p>Home visits are not required but are highly encouraged. Home visits allow your child to meet their new teacher in an environment that is most familiar to them so they feel comfortable. It also allows the teacher to connect the child?s home environment to their new classroom to help your child as they begin a new school year. </p>
<p>If you do not hear from your child?s teacher by August 15, 2011 please contact the school directly. <br>
<i><u><br>
</u></i> <b>Starting the year off in small groups: August 25 and 26<br>
<br>
</b>Children will begin the year in two small groups according to their last name. Starting school in a small group will help your child transition to school because they will have more individual time with their teachers and can learn their new schedule and routines with a small group of peers. <br>
<br>
Children with last names starting with letters A-K will attend school on Thursday, August 25. This group of children will stay home on Friday, August 26. </p>
<p>Children with last names starting with letters L-Z will attend school on Friday, August 26. This group of children will stay home on Thursday, August 25. <br>
<br>
Children will be marked with an excused absence for all days of the week that they stay home. (confirming with OYE). <br>
<br>
All children will start together the second week of school on Monday, August 29. <br>
<br>
<a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW calendar.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW calendar.pdf" id="static_file~~"><span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Calendar </span></a></p>
<table cellpadding="0" width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0">
<tr>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Early Childhood Transition Week Edited.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Early Childhood Transition Week Edited.pdf" id="static_file~~">Spanish</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf" id="static_file~~">French</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf" id="static_file~~">Vietnamese</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard A.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard A.pdf" id="static_file~~">Chinese</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - Early Childhood Transition Week front flier and postcard.pdf" id="static_file~~">Amharic</a></td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr>
<p> </p>
<p><a class="pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/Transition Week letter for parents.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/Transition Week letter for parents.pdf" id="static_file~~"><span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Letter to Parents</span></a></p>
<table height="17" cellpadding="0" border="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">
<tr>
<td height="17" width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Letter to parents Early Childhood Transition Week- Edited.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - Letter to parents Early Childhood Transition Week- Edited.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Spanish</a></td>
<td height="17" width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">French</a></td>
<td height="17" width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Vietnamese</a></td>
<td height="17" width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Chinese</a></td>
<td height="17" width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - Letter to Parents Early Childhood Transition Week.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Amharic</a></td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr>
<p> </p>
<p><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW info.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/Preschool and Pre-K/2011 ECTW info.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~"><span style=" font-size: small;">Early Childhood Transition Week Information</span></a></p>
<table cellpadding="0" border="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">
<tr>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - 2011_ECTW_flier_back.ppt- Edited.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/SPANISH - 2011_ECTW_flier_back.ppt- Edited.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Spanish</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/FRENCH - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">French</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/VIETNAMESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Vietnamese</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/CHINESE - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Chinese</a></td>
<td width="20%"><a class="pdf" href="/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf" onclick="window.open('/DCPS/Files/downloads/Learn-About-Schools/First Day of School/AMHARIC - 2011 ECTW flier_back.pdf','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" id="static_file~~">Amharic</a></td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr>
<p> </p>
<p><br>
<b>Children with Special Needs</b></p>
<p>PS/PK students receiving special education services will participate in Transition Week.<b> </b>The Office of Special Education is working with transportation to ensure that early childhood special education transportation is in place for each start date. If there are any questions about special education transportation parents can call (202) 576-5000.<b><br>
</b><br>
<b>Montessori<br>
<br>
</b>Children enrolled in Montessori classrooms may have a different Transition Week Schedule. Montessori teachers have the option to design an alternate plan that follows the Montessori philosophy. Children enroll in Montessori as three-year-olds and continue with the same teacher for preschool, pre-K, and Kindergarten. Please contact your child?s Montessori teacher or school directly for more information. <br>
<br>
Montessori programs are at Burrville, Marshall, Nalle, Langdon, and Logan Montessori. <br>
</p>86ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____7ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Welcome to Preschool and Pre-K<p>Our nurturing preschool program (for 3-year-olds) and pre-kindergarten program (for 4-year-olds) provide stimulating activities and learning experiences that prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond.</p>
<p>The programs are free for residents of the District of Columbia, but space is limited. Please see the information below to learn more.</p>16ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____86d497a4f7c59210VgnVCM2000002a05c90a____Watch Parent Chat: Early Childhood Education to learn more about program offering in DCPS<p><a alt="Click here to watch the program." href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=e11d77581d749210VgnVCM2000002a05c90aRCRD">Click here to watch the conversation between Miriam Calderon, Director of Early Childhood Education, and parents.</a></p>96ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____8ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Step 1: Is my child eligible for these programs?<p><b>Residency</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Your child must be <a alt="resident" href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=803cd3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=649df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD">resident</a> of the District of Columbia in order to be eligible for a free public education, including preschool and pre-kindergarten, at DCPS.</li>
<li>If you are not a resident of the District of Columbia, you may pay non-resident tuition to enroll in a DCPS school where space is available. For more information, contact the Student Residency Office at (202) 442-5215.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Age<br>
</b>Your child must meet legal requirements for age eligibility in order to enroll at DCPS:</p>
<ul>
<li>Preschool: Your child must turn three (3) years of age on or before September 30th to be eligible for preschool.</li>
<li>Pre-kindergarten: Your child must turn four (4) years of age on or before September 30th to be eligible for pre-kindergarten.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>26ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____9ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Step 2: What do these DCPS programs offer my child?<p><b><object align="right" width="400" height="325"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0xUMJsexDQU&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0&border=1">
<embed allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0xUMJsexDQU&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0&border=1" align="right" height="325" width="400"></embed></object>Basic Facts About Early Childhood Education at DCPS</b></p>
<p>All 85 elementary schools in DCPS offer pre-kindergarten, and most elementary schools also offer preschool.</p>
<p>DCPS preschool and pre-kindergarten programs operate on the regular school system calendar for the length of a typical school day, and are free of cost to residents of the District of Columbia.</p>
<p>All DCPS preschool and pre-kindergarten programs implement a comprehensive curriculum that meets the full range of children?s developmental needs and is aligned to the District of Columbia Kindergarten Readiness Standards. Teachers are encouraged to individualize instructional practices based on the interests and skills levels of each child.</p>
<p>In addition, DCPS provides Head Start comprehensive services to families who qualify, such as family support services and assistance in accessing health, dental, and nutrition services.</p>
<p>At the new <a href="http://www.earlystagesdc.org" onclick="window.open('http://www.earlystagesdc.org','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" alt="Early Stages Center">Early Stages Center</a>, children with special needs are evaluated in a timely manner and receive help identifying an appropriate placement in a DCPS preschool/pre-kindergarten program.</p>
<p><b>Specialized Programs</b></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2fb04fa52e52f210VgnVCM1000002905c90aRCRD">Montessori</a></li>
<li><a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=5f56f79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD" alt="Reggio Emilia-inspired">Reggio Emilia-inspired</a></li>
<li><a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=a3a3ca1c33256210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD" alt="Dual language/Spanish immersion">Dual language/Spanish immersion</a><br>
In dual language classrooms, students learn grade level curriculum in two languages: English and Spanish. This popular and successful program allows students to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in both languages through challenging and engaging classroom activities. <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=a3a3ca1c33256210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD" alt="Learn more.">Learn more.</a></li>
</ul>
<p><b>Learn More</b></p>
<ul>
<li>For a more specific taste of what DC Public Schools are like, explore <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=3729259d36687210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD" alt="these highlighted schools">these highlighted schools</a>.</li>
<li>Learn about all of our schools by viewing <a href="http://dcatlas.dcgis.dc.gov/schoolprofile/" onclick="window.open('http://dcatlas.dcgis.dc.gov/schoolprofile/','popup', 'width=800,height=600,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes'); return false;" alt="School Profiles.">School Profiles</a>.</li>
<li>Find contact information for all DCPS schools in <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=42179f474ac56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD" alt="School Directory">School Directory</a>.</li>
<li>Visit an <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=567ded9a93874210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=4ae7d88eecd56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD" alt="Open House">Open House</a>.</li>
<li>Download learning standards for <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=072bd3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=96f82f7e58d26210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD" alt="Pre-K">Pre-K</a> and for <a href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=effad3c599d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=96f82f7e58d26210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD" alt="Arts, Health, and Physical Education">Arts, Health, and Physical Education</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>36ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____a798f10f23435310VgnVCM1000002905c90a____Why DCPS Early Childhood Education?<p>Research has shown that young children can benefit from participation in a high quality early childhood program that is designed to support the full range of development. We are proud to offer comprehensive programs for 3-year-olds (preschool) and 4-year-olds (pre-kindergarten) that provide stimulating activities and learning experiences to help prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond. </p>
<p>In DCPS, children attend a full day program, with small class sizes. Children participate in fun, engaging daily lessons designed to build language, literacy, math, science and other skills, activities to support physical development, and specials in music and art. We offer several academic program options for families to choose from to provide choice. </p>
<p>DCPS is constantly working to improve school buildings, classroom spaces, and play grounds. In Summer 2012, eleven elementary schools and education campuses will undergo modernization and will open in time for School Year 2012-2013 with new classrooms, amenities, and furniture.</p>
<p> </p>116ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____aab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Step 3: How do I apply for a seat?<p><b>Between January 28 and February 28</b><br>
Submit an application for the <a alt="DCPS Pre-School / Pre-K / Head Start Lottery" href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=9d58ecb42dd22210VgnVCM100000416f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=ef5df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD">DCPS Preschool / Pre-K / Head Start Lottery</a>. Applications are accepted each year between January 28 and February 28.</p>
<p><b>After February 28</b><br>
Some schools may still have seats available after the lottery results have been released. These seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, regardless of whether you live in-boundary or out-of-boundary. </p>
<p>For assistance in locating a seat after February 28, you can call the specific schools in which you are interested or a DCPS placement specialist at (202) 478-5738.</p>
<p><b>Head Start:</b> There is no longer a separate process to apply for Head Start. Head Start-eligible families should apply for preschool / pre-k through the same process described above; they will be identified for Head Start services during this process.</p>
<p><a alt="View Frequently Asked Questions about pre-school / pre-k / Head Start enrollment." href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=9d58ecb42dd22210VgnVCM100000416f0201RCRD&vgnextchannel=ef5df79385d56210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201RCRD">View Frequently Asked Questions about preschool / pre-k / Head Start enrollment.</a></p>46ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____bab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Step 4: How do I enroll my child?<p><a alt="Download all enrollment forms." href="/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=529bc5e318fa7210VgnVCM1000007e6f0201RCRD">Download all enrollment forms.</a></p>56ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____cab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____Step 5: How can I help my child get ready for school?<p>As you prepare your child to enter preschool or pre-kindergarten, take the following tips into consideration:</p>
<p><b>Rest Time<br>
</b>Young children benefit from a nap or rest time during a day full of activities. Classrooms with 3-year-olds rest for one and a half hours, while classrooms with 4-year-olds rest for one hour.</p>
<p><b>Toilet Training<br>
</b>Families are strongly encouraged to toilet train children prior to beginning the preschool or pre-kindergarten program. DCPS will not exclude children who are not yet toilet trained, though most children of this age are ready. Teachers and parents will work in a communicative partnership to encourage the process at school and home.</p>
<p><b>Health and Immunizations<br>
</b>Families are strongly encouraged to bring current immunization records and completed health certifications with them when they register their children. Any family that needs help in accessing these services should contact the Head Start Office at (202) 698-1033.</p>66ab11ec98ed46210VgnVCM2000007f6f0201____