Registration Information
PreKindergarten Registration
Who qualifies for free PreK in the City of Rochester?
Residents of the City of Rochester with a child who is 3- or 4-years-old by December 1 of the current year can apply for free PreK classes starting in September 2026.
About the PreKindergarten Annual Lottery
Each spring, the RCSD Early Childhood Department holds a lottery for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds who have applied for program seats, based on the choices on your application. We will inform you of your child's assigned program in June. If you do not get your first choice of school, your child will be placed on a waiting list according to the lottery number.
The lottery for the 2026–27 school year opens December 8, 2025, and the deadline is April 24, 2026. Following the lottery, seats are assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis. If classes are filled, your child can be put on additional waiting lists. Please contact us today for registration support.
Learn about Program Locations
Applications for Pre-K classes starting this September can be submitted beginning in January of each calendar year. We will ask you to make three location choices on your application. View Pre-K offerings current locations for the 2025-26 school year.
2025-26 School Year Enrollment
Register now for classes beginning in September 2025 using our PowerSchool enrollment Platform. Account creation is required.
PreKindergarten Annual Lottery
Each spring, the RCSD Early Childhood Department holds a lottery for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds based on the choices selected on your enrollment application. We will inform you of your child's assigned program in June. If you do not get your first choice of school, your child will be placed on a waiting list according to their lottery number. Following the lottery, seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. If classes are full, your child can be placed on additional waiting lists.
Program Information
What should I expect from a PreK class?
- Your child will participate in a free, full-day (6 hours) PreK program.
- Many Community Partners offer extended days, wraparound care and/or transportation services.
- For additional information regarding all that our PreK program has to offer your child, click here.
When is PreK offered?
- Monday through Friday, a six-hour full-day program.
- 180 days of instruction during the school year.
- Follows the RCSD school calendar with a few exceptions.
Where is PreK offered?
PreK is offered in several RCSD schools and community-based organizations and is open to those who reside within the city of Rochester. Explore 2025-26 locations >