Henrico Schools opens application period for 2026-27 Early Learning Preschool program
Applications for Henrico County Public Schools’ Early Learning Preschool program, a free pre-K option to qualifying families across Henrico County, are open for the 2026-27 school year.
There are Early Learning Preschool classrooms at 23 of Henrico's public elementary schools. Classes are full-day programs that follow the HCPS school calendar and school hours, and there is no cost to families for the program.
Transportation will be provided for preschool students in accordance with HCPS transportation guidelines.
The Early Learning Preschool application is available until Aug. 11. Families that wish to apply after that date will be considered for the waitlist.
HCPS preschool students gain literacy and other skills using a developmentally appropriate, hands-on curriculum, including a focus on phonemic awareness, language enrichment, social and emotional development and other foundational abilities, according to school system officials.
To be eligible, a child must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 30, 2026 and reside in Henrico County. Eligible students who live within the attendance zone of a school within an HCPS preschool classroom are considered first, but invitations for enrollment are not granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Families must also meet additional income and eligibility requirements to apply for the Early Learning Preschool program, which is funded through the Virginia Preschool Initiative.
Applications (in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Vietnamese), eligibility requirements and required documents can be found at https://www.henricoschools.us/preschool. Families in need of additional assistance can email preschool@henrico.k12.va.us or call (804) 328-8104.
