The HISD + Collaborative for Children Pre-K Partnership gives eligible families the opportunity to enroll their child in FREE, high-quality Pre-K in a trusted community child care center. Children ages 3 and 4 receive engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support school readiness, including literacy, math, social-emotional growth, and whole-child development. With guidance from experienced educators and support through the enrollment process, families can feel confident that their child is building a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond. Check your eligibility and enroll today to secure your child’s spot.
Application for FamiliesThe HISD + Collaborative for Children Pre-K Partnership offers high-quality child care centers the opportunity to expand access to free Pre-K while strengthening their program. Partner centers maintain their unique identity and daily operations while benefiting from sustainable funding, increased enrollment, and comprehensive support, including curriculum, instructional coaching, professional development, and compliance assistance. Together, we are building a coordinated effort to serve more children, support families, and close the school-readiness gap across Houston. Join the partnership today and grow your impact in your community.
Application for Child Care CentersWho is eligible for free Pre-K through this partnership?
Children must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, live within HISD boundaries, and meet at least one eligibility requirement for free Pre-K (such as income eligibility, language criteria, or other qualifying factors).
How much does it cost to enroll my child?
For eligible families, Pre-K is free through this partnership.
What is the difference between Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4?
Pre-K 4 is a full-day program, while Pre-K 3 is typically half-day, both designed to prepare children for kindergarten.
Where will my child attend school?
Your child will attend a trusted, community-based child care center that partners with HISD and Collaborative for Children.
What will my child learn?
Children receive a high-quality early learning experience focused on literacy, math, social-emotional development, and overall school readiness.
What documents do I need to enroll?
You’ll need a birth certificate (or an acceptable alternative), proof of address, an immunization record, parent ID, and eligibility documentation, if applicable.
Will someone help me with the enrollment process?
Yes! Both your chosen center and Collaborative for Children will support you step by step through enrollment and document submission.
How do I get started?
Simply click the enrollment button, check your eligibility, and begin the registration process—support is available if you need help.
What is the Pre-K Partnership?
This is a formal HISD + Collaborative for Children SB 1882 partnership where HISD authorizes the program, Collaborative provides support, and centers deliver daily instruction.
Will I keep control of my center?
Yes. Partner centers maintain their own identity, leadership, and daily operations while participating in the partnership.
What are the benefits of joining?
Centers gain increased enrollment opportunities, sustainable funding, instructional coaching, professional development, curriculum support, and compliance assistance.
How does funding work?
Funding is tied to eligible student enrollment and attendance, creating a stable and sustainable revenue stream.
What kind of support will my center receive?
Collaborative for Children provides curriculum guidance, coaching, data systems, family engagement support, and help with compliance and reporting.
What ages will we serve?
Partner centers serve Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 students who meet eligibility requirements and live within HISD boundaries.
Do we need to meet certain quality standards?
Yes, centers must be TRS (Texas Rising Star) 3-Star or 4-Star, meet high-quality program expectations and be willing to participate in ongoing improvement and partnership requirements.
What is the commitment to join?
Centers commit to implementing the program model, meeting compliance requirements, and working collaboratively to support school readiness goals.
How do we apply to become a partner?
Click the partnership button to express interest and start the application process. Our team will guide you through the next steps.
We meaningfully improve the quality of early childhood education and care for Greater Houston’s children through those most influential in their lives.
All children in Greater Houston have the high-quality early learning opportunities they need to achieve their full potential.
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