Prekindergarten is a special program for eligible four-year-old students. The prekindergarten program is designed to meet the needs of a child's early years, which are a period of rapid growth. It is during this period that key concepts are developed that directly correlate to a student's future academic success. Prekindergarten is an exciting time for students and for parents. For many families, prekindergarten is the introduction into the public school system.

The Austin Independent School District provides a full-day prekindergarten program for all children who turn four on or before September 1st of the current school year. Students must also qualify by being either:

• limited-English proficient (LEP); or
• educationally disadvantaged; or
• child of active military parent; or
• homeless.

Registration for prekindergarten begins in August. Parents should apply at their neighborhood school. The following documents should be brought to registration:

• child's official birth certificate
• child's immunization record
• proof of income (current check stub)
• proof of address (electricity or gas bill)