HomeChild CareMinnesotaHigh Five Preschool Program
How to Apply: High Five Preschool Program
Minnesota · 5 StepsMinneapolis families with a child who turns 4 by September 1
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 5: See if your child fits
Two simple rules
- Child turns 4 by September 1
- You live in the Minneapolis district
Step 2 of 5: Find a school
Many schools offer High Five
- Search schools online (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Pick half day or full day
Good to know: Each class has a licensed teacher plus a helper, with up to 20 kids.Step 3 of 5: Apply online
Through Minneapolis Public Schools
- Fill out the online form (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- Fill out a school request card
Step 4 of 5: Get help if you need it
- Call 612-668-1840
- Email the school district
Step 5 of 5: What your family gets
- Full day of learning and play
- Free bus ride for your child
- Pay based on your income
Good to know: Fees can be waived for families who qualify based on income. Your child is on the path to kindergarten!
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the High Five Preschool Program.
What is High Five?
The High Five Preschool Program is a full-day preschool initiative for children who turn 4 years old by September 1 of the enrollment year. It prepares children for kindergarten through a play-based curriculum aligned with the Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, numeracy, and school readiness skills.
Program Details:
Schedule: High Five offers both half-day and full-day sessions, depending on the location.
Class Size: Each class accommodates up to 20 students, maintaining a teacher-student ratio of 2:20, with one licensed teacher and one associate educator.
Locations: High Five is available at various MPS elementary schools and early learning centers. To find a location near you, visit the ExploreMPS School Finder.
Transportation: MPS provides free transportation for eligible students attending High Five programs.
Eligibility:
Children are eligible if they:
Turn 4 years old on or before September 1 of the enrollment year.
Reside within the Minneapolis Public Schools district.
Cost:
MPS utilizes a sliding fee scale for High Five, as mandated by state law. Families who qualify for educational benefits (based on income) may have the fee waived. Students placed via special education services also have the fee waived.
How to Apply
To apply for the High Five program:
Online Application: Complete an application at MPS Early Childhood Education Enrollment.
School Request Card: Complete a school request card, available at MPS schools and early learning centers.
Assistance: For help with the application process, contact the MPS Early Childhood Education department at 612-668-1840.
Contact Information:
Phone: 612-668-1840
Email: mps.ece@mpls.k12.mn
Address: 1250 W. Broadway Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Additional Resources:
MPS Early Childhood Education: https://www.mpschools.org/academics/ece
ExploreMPS School Finder: https://exploremps.org/Schools/AllSchools
Early Admission to Kindergarten Information: https://www.mpschools.org/academics/ece/early-admission-to-kindergarten
If you have any questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Applications Specialist, please email support@heymirza.com.
Last updated June 5, 2025