FAQ’s
Pre-Kindergarten
Enrollment and Eligibility:
What is the difference between the free program and the tuition-based program?
Our Our free Pre-K program follows specific eligibility criteria set by the state. Our tuition-based Pre-K program is open to families who may not meet the eligibility requirements but still wish to enroll their child. Both programs offer a comprehensive curriculum and nurturing environment.
What are the eligibility criteria for the free program?
A. A student must be 4 years of age or 3 years of age on or by September 1st of the year seeking to enroll, and meet one of the following criteria:
i. is limited in the ability to speak and/or comprehend the English language, or
ii. is eligible for free or reduced lunch based on the family’s income; or
iii. is homeless, as defined by 42 U.S.C. Section 1143a; or
iv. is the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority; or
v. is the child of a member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty; or
vi. is or has been in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code.
vii. is the child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Award as a peace officer under Section 3106.002, Government Code; a firefighter under Section 3106.003, Government Code; or an emergency medical first responder under Section 3106.004, Government Code
*A child eligible for enrollment under item 4 or 5 above remains eligible if the child’s parent leaves the armed forces or is no longer on active duty after the child begins pre-kindergarten.
How do we confirm if a student qualifies for the free program?
During the enrollment process, all Pre-K applications go through a verification process to determine if the student is eligible for the free Pre-K program, including age requirements and TEA criteria. If the student does not meet these qualifications, parents will be notified once the tuition seats are open based on first-come-first-served. All notifications regarding the application are via email.
How are seats offered to students who do not qualify for free Pre-K?
Once seats are available for the tution-based program, the account representative will contact families via phone and email to offer enrollment in the tuition-based program. The family will then proceed through the enrollment process in Brightwheel. Parents are required to sign up for Brightwheel to finalize the enrollment process and establish billing information.
What documents are required for tuition program enrollment?
Families must submit the child’s birth certificate and immunization records during the enrollment process. Additionally, once the tuition-based seats are offered, a Parent/District Agreement for Full-Day Pre-Kindergarten must be filled out and accompanied by a non-refundable $50 registration fee before the student’s application can be approved.
Why is it necessary to collect these documents?
Ensuring that families submit required documents and agreements is essential for regulatory compliance, safety, administrative efficiency, and financial planning. These documents verify the child’s identity, health status, and commitment to the enrollment process.
What happens after the application is approved?
Once approved, families will receive an email confirmation. Further information will be provided prior to the start of the school year.
School Fees:
Is there a registration fee for Pre-K enrollment?
Yes, there is a non-refundable registration fee of $50. This fee must be submitted along with the necessary documents and agreements to complete the enrollment process.
What is the refund policy?
There are no refunds or credits if a child misses a day of school. The tuition is what saves the child’s spot in the program. Tuition is billed monthly for the upcoming month. Refunds or credits will not be given for unused days, vacations, or days not attended due to illness. Past-due tuition will result in the loss of the child’s reserved space in the program.
How do I make payments for tuition and fees?
All payments, including registration fees and tuition, must be made online through the Brightwheel platform. Brightwheel provides a secure and convenient way for families to manage their payments and accounts.
Can a student attend the program if there is an outstanding balance on their account?
No, students with outstanding balances will not be permitted to attend the program until the balance is settled. It is essential to keep the account up-to-date to ensure uninterrupted access to educational services.
Curriculum:
What curriculum do you follow?
We follow the Frog Street curriculum and Spalding Phonograms, which are designed to provide a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for young learners.
How often are students tested and what is the purpose of these tests?
Pre-K students are tested three times during the school year to ensure their development and growth. After the first two tests, parents will be invited for Parent-Teacher Conferences and Student-Led Conferences.
Dress Code:
Is there a dress code?
Yes, students are expected to adhere to the school uniform dress code. Uniform colors and clothing requirements will be provided.
Operating Hours and Facility:
What are the operating hours of the program, and do you offer extended care options?
The program operates from 7:30 am to dismissal for the full day. Additionally, we provide extended daycare from 3:10 to 6:00 pm for parents who require it, with additional charges applicable.
Can you describe the facilities available for students?
Our facilities are designed to support the growth and development of young learners. We have dedicated Pre-K classrooms equipped with age-appropriate furniture and learning materials, along with access to amenities such as the cafeteria, gym, and playground.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
We maintain a recommended state ratio of 1:11, with a lead Pre-K teacher and assistant teacher to ensure personalized attention and support for each child.
How are meals provided for students?
Pre-K students receive three meals: breakfast (if arriving before 8:00 am), morning snack, and lunch, prepared and served in the campus cafeteria. Parents have the option to pack their child’s meals if preferred.
Do students have nap time during the day?
Yes, students have the opportunity to rest for a period during the day to recharge before continuing their learning activities.
What are the drop-off and pick-up procedures?
For safety reasons, parents/legal guardians must accompany their child during drop-off and sign in through our Brightwheel application. During pick-up, a valid state-issued ID must be presented, and students will only be released to authorized persons listed in Brightwheel.