PreK Info
A Great Start for Every Child
Every 3- And 4-Year-old In Newark Deserves a great start
Newark offers free, high-quality PreK programs for families across the city. Explore your options and apply today.
High-quality early learning for every child
Newark’s PreK programs give children the foundation they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Families can choose from a variety of public school, community-based, and Head Start programs all offering FREE, FULL-DAY PreK, for NEWARK residents.
Classrooms are led by certified teachers and provide nurturing, safe, and joyful learning environments.
Classrooms are led by certified teachers and provide nurturing, safe, and joyful learning environments.
Key features
"Why I Choose Newark PreK"
A short 2 minute video testimonial
Simple Steps to Enroll in PreK
All Newark families with children who turn 3 by October 1 are eligible to apply. Follow these steps to secure your child’s spot.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but an early application is encouraged to secure your top program choices.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but an early application is encouraged to secure your top program choices.
Step-by-step Timeline:
Explore schools with our My Schools Newark explorer tool
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about enrollment or what your child needs to get started? We’re here to help you understand ages, requirements, and how the process works so you can make confident decisions for your family.
Children must turn 3 or 4 years old by October 1 of the school year.
The only reason a student wouldn’t get their first choice is if the school doesn’t have enough seats for all applicants. If that happens, the system moves down your ranked list to place your child in the highest-ranked school with available seats.
Last year, 82% of Kindergarten families received their first choice and 94% received one of their top 3 choices
Yes. Newark’s PreK programs are publicly funded and free for Newark residents.
- Age: Children must turn 3 or 4 by October 1 of the school year.
- Documents: Child’s birth certificate, proof of Newark residency, and immunization records.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early application is encouraged to improve chances of your top choices.
- You can rank multiple preferred program options during the application.
Contact Information
Email us at:
info@myschoolsnewark.org
Phone:
(862) 272-6603
Available Mon-Fri, 8:30AM - 4:30PM
Schedule an Appointment:
We’re Here to Help
Our team is ready to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.
Translation services are available.