What is the Voluntary PreK program?
The Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program (VPK) is a state-funded readiness program for at-risk children who are 4 years of age on August 15th. At-risk is defined by the state as being economically disadvantaged.
Due to limited funding, we can only offer a designated number of seats in Hamilton County. Per the terms of the grant which funds VPK, this program is targeted to low income families.
Who may apply for the Voluntary PreK class?
Parents/Guardians of children who are 4 years of age by August 15, whose household is located in Hamilton County.
Why is this program limited by income eligibility?
The VPK program is funded through a state grant which is designed to meet the needs of low income families.
What if I choose to wait and start my child in Kindergarten at the age of 6? Would he/she be able to attend the Voluntary PreK class at age 5?
No, the Voluntary PreK program is only available for children who are 4 years of age by August 15, 2025. This age limitation is stipulated by the state grant which funds our Voluntary PreK program.
Why do I have to complete two applications to be considered for the VPK/Head Start Collaborative classes?
Head Start income eligibility criteria are more restrictive than the VPK criteria. Their application ensures that families meet their eligibility requirements. The HCS application makes sure that Hamilton County Schools has your contact information to ensure that you get important information/communications prior to the start of school.
What if I need help with my application?
Families in need of in person support have two options:
Do I have to pay tuition for my child to attend the HCS Voluntary PreK program?
The VPK program is a grant-funded program and there is not a cost for enrollment.
Does my child have to pass a screening or test to be accepted into the VPK classroom?
No, there is not an academic screening or test to determine eligibility for enrollment in a VPK classroom.
Is transportation provided for PreK students?
Transportation is not currently available for PreK students. Families choosing to participate in the Voluntary PreK class will need to arrange transportation for their child.
What is the PreK calendar?
PreK classes begin the year in a phase-in. During phase-in, students come in smaller groups, which allows the teacher to get to know the students and their learning needs. It also helps children feel more comfortable in the classroom.
Following phase-in, all PreK classes will operate on the same schedule as Hamilton County Schools. We also follow the rest of the district for inclement weather days, delays, or early dismissals. To view the HCS Calendar, click here.
What happens if I am placed on a waiting list?
If you are placed on a waiting list, you will be contacted to determine your interest in open seats at other sites. You can then choose an open and available seat, or choose to remain on the waiting list. In the event that there are no other available seats, you will remain on the waiting list.
If you are on a waiting list, you are advised NOT to give up your current childcare.
Does every elementary school have a PreK class?
No, the grant which funds VPK does not provide enough funding for a PreK class in every elementary school in our county.
How many children and staff are in each classroom?
VPK classes will enroll up to 20 students. A certified teacher and a teaching assistant will be assigned to each class.
What does a PreK class look like?
In a VPK class, you will find up to 20 children in a play-based classroom environment involved in active, hands-on learning. Teachers plan and deliver high-quality instructional lessons and activities based on the TN Early Learning Developmental Standards for children. You will see work on foundational skills critical for success in Kindergarten, including letter sounds and identification, counting, number recognition, colors, shapes, fine motor development, and social skills/personal competencies.
Since this is PreK, does my child need to attend every day?
Yes, all children enrolled in a VPK class need to attend each day. Attendance is very important for a successful year of learning. Your child is expected to attend every day and on time, unless he/she has a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, vomiting, or showing other signs of contagious illness (following the HCS guidelines).