Nevada parents enrolling their kids in pre-kindergarten can now apply to nearly 100 no-cost programs through a single application, the Nevada Department of Education announced Wednesday.
The department launched its new Nevada Ready! pre-K common application on Wednesday, allowing parents to apply to 99 pre-K programs in the state with one application, according to a press release. The application can be found at www.first5nevada.org.
Victor Wakefield, the superintendent of public instruction, said in the release that the streamlined application advances the department’s goal of giving students strong academic foundations.
“High-quality pre-K can make a lasting difference in a child’s educational journey, and this common application makes it easier for families to connect with the opportunities and resources that best meet their needs,” Wakefield said.
The common application allows families to find pre-K programs near preferred locations like home or work, review a variety of early learning settings and compare options to one another, the release said. The application was developed by the state’s education department and The Children’s Cabinet, a Nevada-based nonprofit.
The Nevada Department of Education said a list of pre-K providers participating in the common application will be available soon.
CCSD not included in application
The common application is now used by most, but not all, of the pre-K programs that receive grants from the Nevada Department of Education, according to the application. Its website notes that the Clark County School District uses its own pre-K application process.
An application also does not constitute pre-K enrollment, the release noted. For charter school options, families must also participate in the school’s lottery process when applicable.
Kim Young, CEO of The Children’s Cabinet, said in the release that the common application will help reduce barriers to early learning options for kids.
“For many families, navigating different enrollment requirements and application processes can be overwhelming,” Young said. “By making it easier for families to find and apply for pre-K programs, we’re helping more children start school ready to learn, grow and thrive.”
Contact Spencer Levering at slevering@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0253.
