How to Apply: Kansas City Pre-K

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Kansas City Pre-K.

What is Kansas City Pre-K?

Kansas City offers free Pre-K programs for children ages 3-5 to help them get ready for kindergarten. There are different types of programs including Head Start (for families who meet income rules), neighborhood Pre-K schools, and special programs like Montessori. These programs help children learn, grow, and make friends while getting ready for school. All programs are free and designed to give your child the best start possible.

How do I apply for Kansas City Pre-K?

There are different ways to apply depending on the type of program:

For Head Start Programs (Income-Based):

1. Call MARC Head Start:816-841-3382 to schedule an appointment (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
2. Email:MARCheadstart@marc.org
3. Fill out Interest Form: Complete the Head Start Interest Form and they will help you schedule an appointment

For All Other Pre-K Programs:

1. Apply Online: Use the KCPS enrollment website (works on phone, tablet, or computer)
2. In Person: Visit the KCPS Board of Education Building at 2901 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO (8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday)
3. By Phone: Call the Admissions Office at 816-418-7505

How long does it take to receive funds from Kansas City Pre-K?

Most Kansas City Pre-K programs are completely free - there are no funds given to families because there is no cost to attend. For Head Start programs, once you apply and are approved, your child can start attending right away. For other Pre-K programs, enrollment opens November 9 for the next school year, and families are notified about available seats the week of February 24th. You will get an email confirmation when your application is received.

What do the application steps look like?

For Head Start Programs:

Step 1: Call MARC Head Start or fill out the interest form to schedule an appointment

Step 2: Attend your appointment and bring all required documents

Step 3: Complete the application and income verification process

Step 4: If approved, choose from available Head Start locations

Step 5: Your child can start attending once a spot is available

For Other Pre-K Programs:

Step 1: Apply online or in person (enrollment opens November 9)

Step 2: Submit all required documents with your application

Step 3: Choose up to 4 schools you're interested in and rank them by preference

Step 4: Wait for notification about available seats (around February 24)

Step 5: Accept your offered seat through the online portal before the deadline

Step 6: Complete enrollment and get ready for school to start

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child's Information (required for all applications)

• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Immunization/vaccination records
• Physical exam records

Parent/Guardian Identification (required for all applications)

• Driver's license, state ID, or work badge
• Social Security card

Proof of Residence (required for all applications)

• Utility bills (recent)
• Lease agreement or mortgage statement
• Government mail with current address

Income Verification (only for Head Start programs that are income-based)

• Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
• Tax returns (most recent year)
• W-2 forms
• Employer letter on company letterhead
• Unemployment benefits statements
• Social Security benefits documentation
• TANF or SSI documentation (if applicable)

Special Circumstances (only if applicable)

• Foster care placement paperwork
• Homeless/housing documentation
• Special needs evaluation reports
• Immigration documents (if applicable)

Common FAQ's

1. Are these programs really free? Yes! All Kansas City Pre-K programs are completely free. Some programs also offer free meals, health services, and family support.

2. What's the difference between Head Start and regular Pre-K? Head Start is for families who meet income guidelines (usually at or below federal poverty level). Regular Pre-K is open to all families regardless of income. Both are free and high-quality.

3. What ages can attend? Children must be 3, 4, or 5 years old on or before July 31 to qualify for Pre-K programs. Some schools offer both P3 (age 3) and P4 (age 4) classes.

4. Do you provide transportation? Most Pre-K programs do not provide bus transportation. You will need to drop off and pick up your child. Transportation usually starts at kindergarten.

5. Can my child attend if we don't live in Kansas City? You must live within the Kansas City Public Schools attendance boundary to attend KCPS Pre-K programs. Use the School Finder to see if you're in the district.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For Head Start Programs:

MARC Head StartPhone:816-841-3382Email:MARCheadstart@marc.orgHours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday

KCPS Head Start Enrollment Specialist:Anabel Luna:aluna@kcpublicschools.org

For All Other Pre-K Programs:

Kansas City Public Schools Admissions OfficePhone:816-418-7505

Email:Admissions@kcpublicschools.orgHours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Address: KCPS Board of Education Building 2901 Troost Ave. Kansas City, MO 64109

Website:KCPublicSchools.org/Enroll

Language Services:816-418-5288 (for English Learner families)

Last updated July 14, 2025