Colorado Preschool Program Overview
In the 2022 Legislative Session, HB22-1295 established the Colorado Universal Preschool Program to offer voluntary, high-quality universal preschool to every Colorado child in the year before kindergarten. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) is charged with operating the program to enable families to choose from a mixed-delivery system of high-quality preschool settings, including licensed community-based programs, school-based programs, and licensed home providers. High-quality preschool has demonstrated positive outcomes for children and families in the short and long-term.
How Does it Work?
All children in Colorado can register for up to 15 hours of free, high-quality preschool in their year before kindergarten through Colorado’s Universal Pre-K (UPK) Program.
- Families may qualify for more hours based on a number of qualifying factors.
- 3 Year Olds should contact their school district for preschool services.
- Preschool aged children with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) should work with their Special Education Administrative Unit (AU) to enroll.
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How can families or providers request help?
Online: Help.UPK.Colorado.Gov
Email: universalpreschool@state.co.us
Phone: 303-866-5223, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tiene mas preguntas o necesita ayuda con Preescolar Universal de Colorado? Contáctenos usando este breve formulario o llámenos al 303-866-5223
Note: The information provided generally relates to preschool general education. Preschool special education may involve additional or different standards and requirements. Learn more about Universal Preschool Colorado and special education.