The Partnership for Children of Cumberland County has implemented significant changes to the NC Pre-K site selection process. The NC Pre-K Committee has voted to extend the site selection interval from two years to three years.

NC Pre-K Site Selection Application for three-year contract of 2027-2030 opens July 19, 2026, and the deadline to apply is August 20, 2026. Apply Here.

Interested ECEP Programs must:

Attend one NC Pre-K ECEP Applicants Information Session 2027-2030 on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 12:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Please register for the Information Session: https://reg.learningstream.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0052-0007-19ed73c6c8404e779cf8f3b67f2033b1

What This Means for Providers

  • The next NC Pre-K site selection application period will open on July 19, 2026, for the 2027-2028 school year
  • New multi-year subcontracts will now run for three years instead of two
  • This change creates greater stability for participating centers and the families they serve

Eligibility Requirements

Interested childcare centers must maintain a 4-star or 5-star quality rating to be eligible for consideration during the 2026 selection process.

Preparing for the 2026 Application Cycle

While the next application period opens July 19, 2026, interested providers can start preparing now:

Resources for Providers

We’re committed to supporting high-quality early childhood education in Cumberland County. Visit our NC Pre-K resource page for:

  • DCDEE guidelines and documentation
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Technical assistance information
  • Program quality improvement resources

Contact Information

For questions regarding the NC Pre-K Program or site selection process:

Thank you for your dedication to providing excellent early childhood education for Cumberland County’s children and families. We look forward to working with eligible centers during the 2026 application cycle.