Preschool Registration

At Fort Smith Public Schools, we understand the important role early education plays in setting the stage for future academic success. Since our establishment in 2003, our preschool program has been dedicated to fostering a love for learning from the very start. With classrooms located across all FSPS elementary schools, our licensed childcare center is highly regarded by the Arkansas Department of Human Services and supported by the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success (ABCSS) grant, Child Care Development Funds (CCDF-FPK), local partnerships, and district funding.

Our nurturing and stimulating environment is designed to foster growth and readiness for kindergarten. Our team of dedicated educators creates an interactive, developmentally appropriate setting that encourages hands-on experiences and active participation. Through a curriculum that stimulates curiosity and inspires creativity, we ensure that each young mind is valued and supported.

Registration Guidelines

Preschool registration must be done on a paper-copy and submitted in-person by appointment only. There is no online registration option available.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the preschool program, children must turn 4 on or before August 1 of the current school year. Priority is given to children who are 4 years old on or before August 1 of the current school year.
Three-year-olds may be registered to be placed on the waitlist or participate in the Parents as Teachers program.

Registration Process

1. Pick-Up Packet: Registration packets are available at any FSPS Elementary School or the Parker Center (811 N T St, Fort Smith)

2. Submission: Completed packets must be submitted in person, by appointment only.

Schedule an Appointment

3. Placement Notification: Parents/guardians will be informed about their child's placement in late July or early August. If a classroom is full, the child will be added to the district preschool waitlist.

Required Documents

birth certificate, social security card, immunization records, proof of address, current physical exam, 30 days proof of income

The FSPS Preschool Program is funded through the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success (ABCSS) grant and the Child Care Development-Federal PreKindergarten (CCDF-FPK) Grant. Eligibility for these services is based on the parent/guardian's income.

Frequently Asked Questions

If my child was in the preschool program last year, do I have to reenroll this year?

My child was put on the waitlist last year. Do I need to register again this year?

My child was enrolled in the Parents as Teachers Program last year. How do I get them in a preschool classroom this year?

Parents/Guardians of preschool children who were in the Parents as Teachers program last school year and are interested in a preschool classroom will be contacted by the parent educator. Parents/Guardians will need to schedule an appointment with the Early Childhood Education Department to provide updated documentation including the ABCSS/FPK applications and Student Information form.

Does my registration packet have to be complete to turn it in?

My child was in the preschool program but turns 5 before August 1st this year. Can they stay in preschool?

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions about the Preschool or Parents As Teachers programs,

feel free to reach out to the Early Childhood Education Department. We're here to help and provide

any information you need to ensure your child's early learning experience is successful.

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