Skip to content
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Charleston County Pre-K Child Development Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Charleston County Pre-K Child Development program.

What is CCSD Pre‑K/Child Development (CD)?

Charleston County School District offers full-day, tuition-free Pre-K for children who turn 4 by September 1 and live in CCSD. The program uses state and local funding to prepare kids for kindergarten with high-quality instruction. There are also limited 3K spots for 3-year-olds.

How do I apply for Pre‑K CD?

  1. Create a guardian account on SchoolMint: SchoolMint Signup
    Pick the upcoming enrollment year as the school year. 

  2. Log in to SchoolMint using your email: SchoolMint Login

  3. Start the Pre‑K/CD application and enter your child’s info and grade.

  4. Upload required documents through the portal.

  5. Schedule your child’s DIAL-4 screening after application.

  6. Submit the application before the deadline (opens mid-January, of the enrollment year).

There are no paper, fax, or in-person applications. You’ll receive a confirmation email once submitted.

How long before I hear back?

  • Round 1 notices (acceptance or waitlist) go out by Early June

  • Round 2 notices go out by Early August.

  • If selected, your child begins Pre-K at their zoned school or designated site, with all placements based on priority points and DIAL-4 score.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Sign up for SchoolMint and select the school year.

  2. Start and complete the Pre‑K/CD application with your child’s details.

  3. Upload documents like birth certificate and income info if required.

  4. Schedule DIAL-4 screening from your application portal.

  5. Check email for placement notification after each round.

  6. Accept the offer and complete school registration.

  7. Start the full-day program in August.

What documentation is required?

Child’s Birth Date

  • Certified birth certificate

Special Needs (if applicable)

  • Child’s current IEP, if they have one

Medicaid (if applicable)

  • Medicaid card

Income Verification (for some schools)

  • 2023 tax return (1040, W‑2, 1099)

  • Social Security income letters

  • Last 2 months of pay stubs
    Required only at schools funded by CERDEP (see below).

Common FAQs

1. Who is eligible?
Children who live in Charleston County, are zoned for a CCSD school, and turn 4 by September 1. Limited 3K openings for 3-year-olds at some schools.

2. Is there a cost?
No—Pre‑K/CD is free and runs full school days throughout the year. Regular attendance is required.

3. What is CERDEP funding?
CERDEP schools need income verification to get extra state funding to support eligible children. If your zoned school is funded by CERDEP, you must upload proof during application.

4. What if my child has special needs?
Upload their IEP. Children with IEPs receive screening and priority in placement.

5. What if my child isn’t selected in Round 1?
They’ll stay on the waitlist. If openings appear, Round 2 notifications are sent by early August.

Who do I contact about my application?