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How to Apply: Three School
Minnesota · 5 StepsFamilies in the Minneapolis Public Schools district with a child who turns 3 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 qualifies
- Turns 3 by September 1
- Live in the Minneapolis district
Step 2 of 5: Know what it costs
Fees slide with your income
- Sliding fee scale
- Free for some families
Good to know: Fees are waived if you qualify for educational benefits or your child has a special education placement.Step 3 of 5: Apply online
- MPS enrollment website (opens in a new tab)Tap to open
- See all MPS schools (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 ECE department
Step 5 of 5: Your child starts preschool
- Half-day classes
- Free rides for eligible kids
- Play-based learning
Good to know: Each class has one teacher and two associate educators helping your child learn and grow.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Three School in Minnesota.
What is Three School?
The Three School Preschool Program is a half-day preschool initiative for children who turn 3 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: Three School offers half-day sessions.
Class Size: Each class accommodates up to 20 students, maintaining a teacher-student ratio of 3:20, with one licensed teacher and two associate educators.
Locations: Three School 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 Three School programs.
Eligibility:
Children are eligible if they:
Turn 3 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 Three School, 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 Three School 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.us
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