Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to re-enroll my child if they are a current RPS preschool student?
Families of current RPS preschool students eligible for the 2026-27 school year have received an “Intent to Return” form for re-enrollment. If you haven’t received this form, please contact us at preschool@rvaschools.net.
Who Can Apply for RPS Preschool?
Families living in the City of Richmond with children who will be 3 or 4 years old by September 30, 2026 can apply.
Do I Need to Pay Anything?
No. RPS Preschool is completely free for eligible families.
Students receive transportation, healthy meals, school supplies, special education services, health and dental screenings, and family support, all at no cost to families.
Where Will My Child Attend School?
Preschool students are assigned to their zone school based on their home address. You can use the School Locator tool to find your child’s zone preschool. If your zone preschool is full, your child will be placed at the nearest available location. Visit our website for a list of preschool sites across the city.
Families may request an alternative preschool location; however, if a student is placed at a school other than their zoned preschool, transportation must be provided by the parent or guardian.
Does preschool provide transportation?
Yes, transportation is available for students attending their zone preschool.
Does my child need to be potty trained to attend preschool?
No. Our teachers and staff will work with you to support you and your child with toilet learning.
Can my child with disabilities attend preschool?
Yes. Families of children with special needs are encouraged to apply. If your child has a medical diagnosis or an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) from a district other than Richmond Public Schools, please contact Preschool Reception and Diagnostic Services at (804) 780-8058 to schedule an appointment. For more information regarding Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) please visit the Early Childhood Special Education website.
How Is Eligibility Determined?
Head Start eligibility is based on family income (up to 130% of the federal poverty guideline), children from homeless families, and families receiving public assistance such as TANF or SSI are also eligible. Eligibility for the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) is based on family income (up to 200% of the federal poverty guideline) and additional criteria, such as housing stability, parent education, employment, developmental needs, health, language, and family circumstances.
Families will have the opportunity to share their family information and unique circumstances during the preschool application process. This information helps RPS determine eligibility and connect families with any additional supports or services they may qualify for.
Placement priority is given based on each family’s individual needs. Please note that the program is not first-come, first-served. Children are placed, and may move from the waitlist according to their family’s needs and unique circumstances.
All family information remains confidential and is used only for eligibility purposes.