Preschool Years

The many benefits of high-quality preschool education are clear, from preparing children for kindergarten to improving test scores throughout school. Studies also show that children who attend Pre-K are less likely to repeat grades and more likely to graduate from high school than those who do not.

We are happy to offer tuition assistance at quality preschool programs in Henrico County for 3 and 4 year old children. In these programs your child will build math and reading skills, as well as social skills through engaging with other children. All preschool programs are free and include healthy snacks and meals. Have questions? Visit our FAQ’s page.

We have partnered with private centers across the county to provide parents with choice in where their child attends preschool. View our list of partner centers for the 2023-24 school year.

When applying for preschool funding and placement there are three steps:

Complete the screening application online
If you are unable to apply online, email info@vaelp.org or call (804) 877-9412 to schedule an appointment to apply in person.

After completing the screening application, you will be contacted via email within 7 days with your child’s eligibility results:

  • If you receive an eligibility email to move to step 2, it is your responsibility to complete the full application and upload the required documents. These documents support your application and verify your child’s eligibility.
  • If you receive an email stating your child is ineligible, it means that your child does not qualify for the Virginia Early Learning Preschool program. You will be offered referral to other preschool options upon request.

If you are tentatively eligible, you’ll be asked to provide documentation to confirm eligibility. Your documents will not be reviewed until the full application and all required documents are uploaded to info@henricogives.org

If you were found eligible, you will receive an email letting you know that funding has been secured and it’s time to finish the enrollment process. You will be given specific instruction depending on the program you have chosen. Note: this step must be completed within one week.

Families who complete all three steps will receive a letter with preschool open house information, as well as the name of the child’s preschool teacher from the assigned program.