Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program Opens Enrollment for Upcoming 2025-26 School Year While Current Year Enrollment Continues

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DENVER, CO — Colorado families can apply for the 2025-26 Universal Preschool Program, as of noon December 17, 2024. This exciting opportunity offers up to 15 hours of free, high-quality preschool for all children in the year before kindergarten, with additional hours available for qualifying families.

“Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program is truly raising the bar for early childhood education – for children, parents, and our economy,” said Governor Jared Polis. “In addition to saving families an average of $6,100, recent research shows how state-funded universal preschool programs help parents stay in the workforce, access more paid child care hours, and earn up to 20% more each year. Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program not only saves Colorado families money, it drives our state’s economy and earliest learners forward to thrive for years to come.”

“Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program shows what’s possible when we prioritize young learners,” said Dr. Lisa Roy, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Early Childhood. “High-quality preschool opportunities strengthen families and drive our communities forward.”

Successes for Program Year 1 (2023-24)
Families saved an average of $6,100 for a combined total of $239 million.
Nearly seven out of 10 eligible four-year-olds in Colorado – 68.7% (43,479) – were served, highlighting Colorado as a leader compared to the national average of 35% enrollment in state-funded preschool programs.
Enhancements in Program Year 2 (2024-25)
Expanded hours with a new qualifying factor for families considered to be living in poverty by federal guidelines. Increased language access with applications now available in 11 languages and interpreters available in more than 100 languages by calling the help desk. Enhanced support for more than 8,000 preschoolers with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with Direct Placement pathway. More than 41,640 four-year-olds have been served so far in the 2024-25 school year, about 65% of the number of children who qualify. Children can still be enrolled for the 2024-25 school year with families encouraged to register directly with a participating provider of choice through the end of the school year.
New in Program Year 3 (2025-26)
Provider Resource Bank launching to support providers in meeting updated quality standards. Enhanced communication via centralized contact center offering online, email, and phone support, including access to interpreters to support families in communicating with call center specialists in more than 100 languages. “We’re committed to meeting the diverse needs of Colorado families,” said Dawn Odean, Universal Preschool Program Director. “From expanded services to multilingual support, we’re always evolving to ensure every child can thrive.”