Universal PreKindergarten

Better Beginnings Start Now

There are free and low-cost preschools available in Santa Cruz County! Early learning programs put children on a path to succeed in school and be ready for college and careers.

Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) offers flexible, high-quality early learning choices for 3- and 4-year-olds that address families’ child care needs. All families in Santa Cruz County, regardless of immigration and income status, are eligible to participate.

Children turning 4 by Sept. 1, 2025, can enroll in transitional kindergarten in the 2025 – 2026 school year. Registration open now. Enrollment for preschool is similar to kindergarten. Enrollment packets can be picked up at any participating elementary school in Santa Cruz County.

Families can now choose the best preschool option that meets their cultural, family and life needs.

Name	California State Preschool Program (CSPP)	Head Start	Private/NonProfit	Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Ages	2- through 5-year-olds	3- and 4-year-olds	3- and 4-year-olds	All students who turn 4 years old by Sept. can enroll in TK in 2025-2026 school year
What it is	Preschool program run through contracts from the State of California	Federally-funded preschool program	Private preschool and family child care programs	Part of the public elementary school system that serves students the year before kindergarten
Schedule	Part-time and full-day options available	Part-time and full-day options available	Part-time and full-day options available	Part-time and full-day options available
Cost	Free or low-cost based on income eligibility	Free, based on income eligibility	Fees determined by individual program	Free, regardless of income
Eligibility	Income determined	Income determined	Open to all	Open to all

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS INFORMATIONAL FLYER

Better Beginnings Start Now

Child Development Resource Center

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