- Wake County Public School System
- Pre-K Application Process
Preschool Programs and Early Learning
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Wake Pre-K application information (2025-26)
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Who can apply?
If your child will be 4 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2025, and lives in Wake County, you can apply for free Pre-K programs that help children grow, learn, and get ready for kindergarten.
Programs include:
- NC Pre-K
- WCPSS Title I Pre-K
- Telamon Head Start
Your child will be matched with the program that best fits your family’s needs.About WCPSS Title I Pre-K
This program supports children who may benefit from extra help before kindergarten.
Classroom details:
- Located in Wake County elementary schools
- Learning through play and exploration
- Follows regular school hours
- Free breakfast and lunch
- Transportation may be available
- Screening required to determine eligibility
How to apply
You can apply for the 2025–26 school year until June 13, 2025.
To be eligible:
- Your child must be 4 years old by Aug. 31, 2025.
- Your child will complete a short screening each spring.
Once you submit your completed application, you will receive a message about your child’s screening appointment.How to submit your application
You can:
or
Mail your application to:
Wake County Smart Start – Application Center
4901 Waters Edge Drive, Suite 101
Raleigh, NC 27606Tuition-based classrooms
These Pre-K options require tuition. Each school provides details about how to apply and when you will hear back.
Available programs:
- Project Enlightenment - A half-day class for children with and without learning or emotional needs.
- Kingswood Montessori Magnet Elementary - A combined Pre-K and kindergarten class using Montessori methods.
- Lacy Elementary - A half-day class where children with and without hearing loss learn together through projects and questions.