To start an application, you can call the Bilingual Pre-K Application Specialist at 1-833-PREK-EDU to set up a virtual application appointment. You can find more information on applying for Durham PreK on our Enrollment page.
Families
Apply Now
To start your application process, schedule a virtual application appointment at 1-833-773-5338 with a Bilingual Pre-K Application Specialist.
Urgent Child Care Needs During COVID-19
Under the direction of Gov. Roy Cooper, the NC DHHS and the NC DPI are working to provide child care options to children of essential workers working to keep our communities safe and healthy as we respond to COVID-19.
This includes:
- first responders,
- hospital staff,
- front-line healthcare providers,
- nursing and adult group home staff,
- child care program staff,
- food service staff,
- children experiencing homelessness or other unstable living conditions,
- and others working to keep our communities safe and
healthy.
For assistance in finding care, please call 1-888-600-1685. View more information below.
Enrollment
All Durham County children who have turned four by August 31 of the school year attending are eligible for Durham PreK. Below is Durham PreK’s 2020-2021 sliding scale for families:
- Free for families below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) based on household size
- 4% parent fee at 400% FPL and above based on families' gross monthly income
Site Locations
Durham PreK sites completed the provider application process and were chosen based on a rubric that ensured high-quality education for each child. Each classroom will have a Birth-to-Kindergarten Licensed teacher and will follow the high-quality standards determined by the Durham PreK Governance Committee.
Search our interactive map to see which Durham PreK sites are near you!
Resources
There are many organizations in Durham County that support families with young children. You can find more information on our Family Resources Page
FAQs
What are the hours for Durham PreK?
Most Durham PreK classrooms follow the Durham Public Schools Traditional Calendar, with the exception of Holt Elementary and Pearsontown Elementary which operate on the Durham Public Schools Year Round Calendar. Both calendars are available under Family Resources.
All sites operate on a 6.5 hour school day, and some sites may offer before and after care. Families will be able to indicate their location preferences during the application appointment.
Click here for the Before and After School Care Information Packet to view the hours and fees at each of the Durham PreK, NC Pre-K and Head Start sites. Durham Public Schools does not currently offer after school care, with the exception of The Whitted School.
Who is eligible to apply for PreK in Durham?
Any family living in Durham County with a child who will be 4 by August 31st of the PreK year is eligible to apply. Eligibility for PreK services in Durham is not limited by income.
Would you like to be featured on our website?
- Has Durham PreK helped your family?
- Does your child love their Durham PreK teachers?
- Has one of your child's teachers gone above and beyond to make your family feel welcomed?