The NC Pre-K program provides FREE high-quality pre-kindergarten education for families who qualify.

The NC Pre-K Application Day is held annually to provide in-person assistance to local families for access to FREE, high-quality pre-kindergarten.

This year’s event:

There are no upcoming events.

What is NC Pre-K?

The NC Pre-K program provides FREE high-quality pre-kindergarten education for families who qualify.

Where are NC Pre-K classrooms located?

NC Pre-K operates on the public school calendar and classrooms are available in a number of different locations across the community including Private Child Care Sites, Cumberland County Schools and Head Start Sites. 

How do you know if your child qualifies?

  • Your child must be 4-years-old by August 31, 2020
  • Priority will be given to families who meet income eligibility. Additional consideration (even if not income eligible) is given to families whose child:
    • has documentation of a diagnosed developmental disability
    • is a military dependent of an active duty service member or a military service member who has been seriously injured or killed while on active duty
    • has limited English proficience
    • has an educational need or a chronic health condition

What do I need to bring to see if my child qualifies?

  • Copy of child’s official birth certificate
  • Proof of income:
    • Employed individuals
      • Pay Stubs for a complete month (if paid weekly – bring 4 consecutive pay stubs; if paid twice a month – bring 2 consecutive pay stubs; if paid monthly – submit at least 1 full month’s pay stub)
      • Tax records (W-2; 1040EZ-line 4; 1040-Adjusted Gross line 37; 1040A-Adjusted Gross line 21)
      • Employer written statements signed by the employer (on letterhead, if available)
    • Self-Employed individuals
      • Tax records or 1099
      • Business bank statements
    • Unemployed individuals
      • Award letter from the Employment Security Commission
      • If you don’t have any documentation, you will be asked to sign a statement of $0 income
    • Disabled individuals
      • Award letter from the Social Security Administration
    • Proof of receipt for child support and/or alimony
  • If applicable:
    • Court Ordered Custody Papers
    • Proof of military dependent status (DEERS form or LES)
    • Military Special Power of Attorney & TDY/Deployment Orders
    • Individualized Education Program (IEP)
    • Disability documentation/Chronic Health Condition

Do I need to bring my child?

No, while children are welcome, they do not need to be present to apply.

What will happen at NC Pre-K Application Day?

You will go through a step-by-step application process. This will include:

  • Application Assistance
  • Eligibility Determination 
  • Information Provided on Placement Notification 

Are there any other services available on that day?

There are several FREE services being provided by the Cumberland County Department of Public Health at the event: immunizations, dental, vision, and hearing screenings. WIC services will also be available.

Can I fill out the NC Pre-K application ahead of time?

Yes! You can come with a completed application. Applications are available at the Partnership for Children’s office at 351 Wagoner Drive.

What if I need help filling out the application?

No problem. We will have staff on hand to help you. Spanish speaking staff will also be on site.

Who do I contact for more information?

You can fill out this online form or call and leave a message at 910-826-6444.

Language assistance will be available onsite for Spanish speaking individuals. Additionally, reasonable accommodations for persons with mobility issues can be made on site. If you have specific needs or concerns please contact our offices in advance.

Although a child may meet one or more eligibility factors, placement is not guaranteed in an NC Pre-K classroom. Placement in your preferred location is also not guaranteed.