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Oklahoma Pre-K

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

What is Oklahoma Pre-K?

Oklahoma Pre-K is a free, voluntary public school pre-kindergarten program for four-year-old children. Oklahoma ranks 2nd in the nation for access to preschool programs and currently serves 65% of the state's four-year-olds. Children in Oklahoma Pre-K have access to an Early Childhood Certified Teacher, a 10:1 child-to-teacher ratio, comprehensive school services, full-day or half-day programs, and state-adopted curriculum standards. The program operates in public schools, Head Start centers, child care centers, and community-based programs through collaboration partnerships.

How do I apply for Oklahoma Pre-K?

Oklahoma Pre-K enrollment is handled directly by your local school district. There is no statewide application process.

To apply:

  1. Contact Your Local School District: Each district handles its own Pre-K enrollment process and timeline
  2. Visit Your School District's Website: Look for "enrollment," "Pre-K," or "early childhood" sections for specific information
  3. Call Your District's Enrollment Office: Ask about Pre-K enrollment dates, requirements, and available locations

Common enrollment methods used by districts:

  • Online pre-enrollment or registration
  • In-person enrollment sessions at specific times
  • Lottery systems for oversubscribed programs
  • First-come, first-served enrollment

You may also contact the Oklahoma State Department of Education for general Pre-K information:

Is Oklahoma Pre-K really free?

Oklahoma Pre-K is completely free - there are no funds given to families because there is no cost to attend. Once enrolled, your child can attend Pre-K at no charge to your family. 

What do the application steps look like?

Step 1: Determine which school district you live in and check if they offer Pre-K programs

Step 2: Visit your school district's website or call their enrollment office to learn about their specific Pre-K enrollment process

Step 3: Attend any required information sessions or enrollment events

Step 4: Complete your district's enrollment application (online or in-person)

Step 5: Gather and submit all required documents to your school district

Step 6: Participate in any lottery or selection process if the program is oversubscribed

Step 7: Receive notification from your district about enrollment status or waitlist placement

Step 8: Complete final enrollment paperwork and prepare for the school year

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Child's Information (required for all applications):

  • Legal birth certificate (unedited, not hospital certificate)
  • Current immunization records or exemption waiver
  • Social Security card (if available)

Parent/Guardian Information (required for all applications):

  • Photo ID of legal guardian(s) (driver's license or state-issued ID)
  • Proof of residence within school district boundaries

Proof of Residence (required - districts have varying requirements):

  • Recent utility bill (gas, water, or electric - within 30 days)
  • Lease agreement or mortgage statement
  • Property tax documentation
  • Other district-approved residency documents

Health and Safety Requirements:

  • Current immunizations must be completed before school entry
  • Physical examination (may be required by some districts)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Medical information for any special needs

Special Circumstances (only if applicable):

  • Court orders or custody documentation
  • Foster care placement papers
  • Special education evaluation reports (IEP documentation)
  • Military family documentation

Common FAQ's

1. Is Oklahoma Pre-K really free? Yes! Oklahoma Pre-K is completely free and voluntary. There are no tuition fees, application fees, or hidden costs. The program is funded by the state.

2. What age does my child need to be? Children must be four years old on or before September 1st of the enrollment year. This date is set by state law and is firm.

3. Do we have to live in the school district? Yes, you must be a resident of the school district where you want to enroll your child in Pre-K. Each district verifies residency requirements.

4. Are all school districts required to offer Pre-K? No, participation is voluntary for school districts, but currently every district in Oklahoma has chosen to participate in the program.

5. What if there are more applicants than spots available? Many districts use lottery systems or first-come, first-served enrollment. Some offer waitlists. Contact your local district to understand their specific process.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Your Local School District:

This is your primary contact for all Pre-K enrollment questions. Each district handles its own enrollment process, timelines, and requirements.

To find your school district:

  • Use your school district's website enrollment section
  • Call your district's main office or enrollment department
  • Visit your district's administrative offices

Oklahoma State Department of Education:

For general Pre-K program information only (not enrollment):

Office of Early Childhood and Literacy Phone: 405-521-3034

Early Childhood Specialists:

Program Director, Standards and Learning: Sharon Morgan: 405-521-3034

Mailing Address: Oklahoma State Department of Education Oliver Hodge Building 2500 North Lincoln Boulevard Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Website: SDE.ok.gov/early-childhood-and-family-education

For Special Education Services:

Office of Special Education: 405-521-3351

619 Coordinator - Megan Withers: 405-522-3237

Email: Megan.Withers@sde.ok.gov

Additional Resources:

Early Childhood Newsletter: Subscribe to #OKEarlyEd Newsletter for updates

Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness: General early childhood resources

Local Head Start Programs: Alternative or supplemental early childhood options