• The LCS Pre-K programs are grant funded through the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI). Eligible students participate in this free whole day program 5 days a week in accordance with the LCS elementary school calendar.
• Children in LCS Pre-K programs are cared for and taught by knowledgeable licensed teachers and staff with skills to support their development and learning.
• LCS Pre-K programs focus on preparing children for Kindergarten and beyond. The State approved curriculum provides the necessary literacy, math, self-regulation, and social emotional skills needed to be successful in school and life.
• Students in the program are offered breakfast, lunch through our LCS school nutrition program and LCS transportation if needed.
• Programs are contingent upon funding & program locations are subject to change.
• The following LCS schools offer Pre-K programming:
  • Hutcherson Early Learning Center
  • Paul Munro Elementary
  • Perrymont Elementary
  • Robert S. Payne Elementary

The program is available for children ages 3-4 years old by September 30, 2025, and meets eligibility criteria in accordance with the VPI Guidelines.

Step 1: Application Submission

Beginning Feb. 1, 2025, complete and submit an online application for the select program. Note, submission of an application does not guarantee placement in our LCS program.

Step 2: Eligibility Notification

Mid-April applicants will receive an email notifying of their eligibility status.

Step 3: Collection of Verified Documents

April/May, eligible applicants will be asked to submit documentation. 

• Child’s Original Birth Certificate (Application for Birth Certificate - Vital Record)
• School Physical Form (School Entrance Physical Examination Form)
• Updated Immunization Record (Immunization Requirements)
• Proof of Income (pay stubs, W2, letters of assistance and support you receive with the amount indicated on the letter; SNAP, TANF, SSI, WIC, etc.)

Step 4: Pre-K Student Screening appointment

Beginning in May, eligible students will receive an email to set up a screening appointment for June 9-12, 2025. All eligible students for the 2025-26 school year will be required to complete a Pre-K screening and submit all enrollment documentation by June 30, 2025, in order to secure their spot in the program.

Step 5: Acceptance Notification

Parents/guardians who have completed the application, screening, and enrollment process will receive an acceptance/placement notification email beginning July 7, 2025, and continuing throughout the summer months or until all program allocations have been filled. Students found eligible after all program allocations have been filled will be placed on a waitlist.