District of Columbia: Early education for 3, 4 year olds a priority in every ward

During the past two years, the Fenty Administration has added more than 700 Pre-School/Pre-Kindergarten/Head-Start (PS/Pre-K/HS) seats to District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), in all eight Wards. For 2010-2011 this will equate to 25 new classrooms across 18 schools which represents an increase of 225 PS seats and 200 Pre-K seats from 2009-2010. District families can apply online now to enter their 3- and-4-year-olds in a lottery for available PS/Pre-K/HS seats at 85 elementary schools."A strong start to school is invaluable; Pre-school, Pre-K and Head Start are critical to student success," said Mayor Adrian M. Fenty. ?"To sustain this reform effort we have to ensure that the District's youngest residents have more access to high quality early education - and our continued expansion is just the first step."

While PS and Pre-K is not required for DC residents, access to a high quality, early childhood experience is an important component of DCPS's broader strategy to eliminate the achievement gap. ?DCPS is proud to offer 3400 seats for 3 and-4-year-old children in this year's lottery, and encourages all families to use the free early education programs offered in every Ward.

About the lottery process

The last day to enter the PS/Pre-K/HS lottery is Feb. 28. There is no advantage to applying early. Parents can save and edit their application up until the deadline. This allows families more time to attend open houses, make school visits and ultimately make more informed decisions.

Applicants can each choose up to six schools, up from five last year. Applicants for PS/Pre-K/HS seats will receive preference for: living within the boundary of a school, having a sibling who attends that school or for living in close proximity to the school (approximately three blocks).

Each application must be submitted online, and every school is equipped to assist any family that needs access to a computer. Families can also call the Critical Response Team at (202) 478-5738 for additional assistance.

The lottery will run on March 2. Results will be posted online March 3, and mailed home March 8. For more information about the PS/Pre-K/Head Start Lottery and for details about individual schools please visit www.dcps.dc.gov