School starts up soon, but there are spots still available in Durham PreK programs.

With funding from the Durham County Government, Durham PreK offers the opportunity for universal services for all four-year-olds in Durham County through programs such as NC PreK, Durham Public Schools and Head Start, according to a press release. Durham’s Partnership for Children is still accepting applications for enrollment for this school year. Families can apply by contacting Durham’s Partnership for Children at 919-403-6960 or through the group's website.

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Your child might qualify for the program, according to the group, if ...

  • Your child is not currently enrolled in a preschool program.
    • Your child turns 4 years by August 31, 2019 (born between September 1, 2014 and August 31, 2015).
      • Your child has health concerns or special needs.
        • Your family qualifies for financial assistance.
          • English is your child’s second language.

            Durham PreK classrooms are located in private early childhood programs, Durham Public Schools and Head Start classrooms. All Durham County residents are eligible for Durham PreK, according to the Durham Partnership. The program is free for families whose household incomes are at or below 300% of the federal poverty level, which is based on household size. That level ranges from $21,330 for a family of three to $43,430 for a family of eight.

            "High quality preschool is important for children because a child’s brain develops rapidly in their first five years, making their relationships, experiences and environment key for successful brain development. And research has shown that quality early education is more effective than addressing problems at a later age, especially for children of color or children from families earning low-incomes," said Linda Chappel, Child Care Services Association's vice president of Triangle child care resource and referral. "Children from lower-income households are often left behind their peers, furthering inequality and setting the stage for an achievement gap that persists through high school. Durham County leaders are committed to addressing these achievement gaps that exist from an early age and have lifelong consequences."