HomeChild CareOhioMontgomery County Preschool Promise
How to Apply: Montgomery County Preschool Promise
Ohio · 5 StepsMontgomery County families with a child turning 4 by September 30 (or 3 in Dayton), income up to 300% of the poverty level
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 5: See if your child qualifies
- Turns 4 by September 30
- 3-year-olds OK in Dayton
- Live in Montgomery County
Good to know: Families earning up to 300% of the poverty level can qualify.Step 2 of 5: Pick a preschool
- 120+ quality-rated sites
- All are Step Up To Quality rated
Step 3 of 5: Get your papers ready
- Birth certificate
- Utility bill or lease
- Pay stubs or tax returns
Important: If you have no income, you will need a zero-income statement.Step 4 of 5: Apply online
- Fill out the online form
- Upload your papers
- Need help? Call 937-329-2700
Don't miss: Online only - paper, fax, and in-person applications are not accepted.Step 5 of 5: Start preschool
- School finishes your enrollment
- Monthly tuition help begins
Good to know: Help starts once your child is enrolled and attending. Welcome to preschool!
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Preschool Promise in Montgomery County, Ohio.
What is Montgomery County Preschool Promise?
Montgomery County Preschool Promise helps families afford high-quality preschool in the county. It offers tuition assistance, free learning tools, and high-quality preschool options. Providers get training and resources to help children get ready for kindergarten.
How do I apply for Preschool Promise tuition assistance?
Online only: Start your application via the Preschool Promise portal: Apply Now.
Need help? Call 937‑329‑2700, or if you don’t speak English, call 937‑751‑4390, or email questions@preschoolpromise.org for support.
No paper, fax, or in-person applications are accepted — everything is handled online.
How long does it take to receive funds?
Once your child is enrolled and attending a participating site, tuition assistance begins.
The program covers tuition on a "last dollar in" basis—after other public funds are applied.
What do the application steps look like?
Check eligibility:
Live in Montgomery County
Child is 4 by September 30 (or 3 by Sept 30 if living in Dayton city or public school district).
Find a provider:
Choose from over 120 medal-rated (Step Up To Quality) sites.
Apply online:
Fill out the application and upload required documents
Site enrolls child:
Your preschool provider will complete enrollment and manage invoicing
Assistance starts:
Your provider receives tuition on your behalf each month
What documentation is required?
Child Eligibility
Proof of age (e.g. birth certificate)
Proof of residency (e.g. utility bill or lease)
Proof of Income & Household
Recent pay stubs, tax returns, or award letters
If no income, a signed zero-income statement
Additional Funding Info
Details of other public funding (for "last dollar" coordination)
Common FAQs
1. Who is eligible?Children turning 4 by Sept 30, living in the county; or 3-year-olds in Dayton city or Dayton Public Schools. Family income must be within program limits (up to 300% FPL).
2. Which preschools qualify?Preschool Promise sites are Step Up To Quality medal-rated (3–5 stars) across Montgomery County.
3. How does funding work?The program pays the tuition balance after other public funds—CPP is the "last dollar in" payer.
4. What extra support does the program offer?Families also receive free books, play kits, and other resources to promote learning at home.
5. Is it high quality?Yes — almost all Preschool Promise sites have 3+ stars, and studies show participating children score significantly higher on readiness assessments.
Who do I contact about my application?
Preschool Promise
Phone: 937‑329‑2700
For non-English speakers: 937‑751‑4390
Email:questions@preschoolpromise.org
Take a look:Apply Now
Last updated July 1, 2025