Preschool & Early Childhood Education
The 2025-26 Preschool Application Is Now Open!
This is a free program for eligible children who turn 3 and 4-years-old by September 30, 2025.
Click here to apply
RPS Preschool includes the Head Start and VPI (Virginia Preschool Initiative) Programs.
Click here to learn more about their locations and transportation availability.
Families enrolling a student in RPS for the first time will need to create an account when they first visit. Watch our quick video on how to get started!
Enroll RPS Portal: A User Guide for Parents and Guardians
Portal de Inscripción de RPS: Guía del Usuario para Padres y Tutores
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2025-26 Required Documents to Apply
To apply for RPS Preschool (VPI, Head Start, and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Inclusion Classes) families will need to complete the online preschool application and provide the following documents:
- Original or Certified Child’s Birth Certificate
- Two Proofs of Residence
- Proof of Income
- Up-to-Date Immunization and Physical Exam Records
- Individualized Education Program (IEP), if Applicable
- Court-ordered Custody Paperwork, if Applicable
Families of children with special needs are encouraged to apply to preschool.
Families in transition, including students experiencing housing instability, houselessness and living with kinship caregivers/non-guardian family members, can call (804) 780-6288 or email cfit@rvaschools.net for additional support.
If you need additional information, assistance with your online application, or if you are missing one or more of the required documents, please send an email to preschool@rvaschools.net. We are here to help.
- Birth Certificate
- Proofs of Residence
- Proof of Income
- Up-to-Date Immunization and Physical Exam Records
- Individualized Education Program (IEP), if Applicable
- Court-ordered Custody Paperwork, if Applicable
Birth Certificate
Proofs of Residence
Proof of Income
Up-to-Date Immunization and Physical Exam Records
Individualized Education Program (IEP), if Applicable
Court-ordered Custody Paperwork, if Applicable
RPS offers free, high-quality preschool through the Head Start and Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) programs for eligible children who turn 3 or 4 years old by September 30, 2025. Our preschool program provides young learners and their families with the following benefits:
A rich curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten
Engaging learning experiences through play, music, and art
Exciting field trips
Social-emotional development lessons
Transportation services
Nutritious breakfast and lunch
Health check-ups
Comprehensive family support services