First Class Pre-K

The Alabama First Class Pre-K program supports quality, accountability, and child outcomes that extend well beyond kindergarten entry. The ADECE has implemented evidence-based strategies and methods grounded in research literature to assure that all Alabama 4-year-olds have access to excellent early learning classrooms in their communities. Classrooms are funded through a grant process in which sites must meet specific quality assurances and abide by rigorous operating guidelines. Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program has been awarded the highest quality rating by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) for 18 consecutive years.

A child must be an Alabama resident and be 4 years old on September 1 of the school year for which he/she is being registered. Children who are eligible for kindergarten are not eligible for pre-k. No child will be denied participation on basis of income, sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.

Yes

There is no registration fee for First Class Pre-K programs.  No child can be denied access to pre-k based income.

6.5 hours

There are classrooms in every county across the state. Click here to locate one in your community.

Visit prek.alaceed.alabama.gov to register your child. Each site will host a random selection drawing to enroll students.

Each program maintains a randomized waitlist that is used to fill an opening. Your child may be on more than one waitlist at a time.

Enrollees must provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate, proof of residence, an immunization record upon enrollment.

Numerous research studies have shown that children who participated in high-quality pre-kindergarten programs are less likely to repeat a grade, require remedial education, or be placed in special education; score higher on achievement tests; are more likely to graduate from high school and go on to college; get higher paying salaries as adults; and are more likely to stay out of prison and off welfare.