Dear Charlottesville City Schools families, 

Our new Charlottesville Early Learning Center (CELC) is opening this fall, and now is the time to apply for preschool for the 2026-27 school year! Applications to attend CELC are due by April 1.

About CCS Preschool in Fall 2026

• WHAT: Free preschool for children in the City of Charlottesville turning 3 or 4 by September 30, 2026. 
• WHERE: Charlottesville Early Learning Center (CELC) will be on the Walker campus, 1564 Dairy Road.
• WHO: Our program specifically supports families navigating income, housing, or educational challenges to ensure every child is ready for kindergarten.
• WHEN: The CELC school day will be from 8:25am-3:15pm, and will follow the Charlottesville City Schools academic calendar. Bus transportation will be available.
• New next year: After-care will be available on-site through the YMCA for children who are potty-trained. 

How to Apply
Applications are accepted through the Go2Grow website. Visit Go2Grow and upload:

• Proof of Income: 2025 taxes or 2-4 recent pay stubs.
• Proof of Residency:  Current lease, mortgage, or utility bill.
• Child’s Birth Certificate.
• Parent/Guardian Photo ID.

Documents can also be faxed to CCS at (434) 245-2619.

Key Deadlines & Reminders

• Apply by April 1 via Go2Grow: Seats are limited; applications are being processed now.
• Health Forms: Please schedule your child’s physical/well-visit soon.
• Fax Documents: Records can be sent to (434) 245-2619.

Need help applying? Contact our preschool enrollment team:

• Eleanor Barrese (Family Support): 
  • (434) 245-2865 (Habla español)
  • barrese1@charlottesvilleschools.org
• Sheila Sparks (Coordinator):
  • (434) 531-5920 (Call or text)
  • sparkss1@charlottesvilleschools.org

More About the CELC
The goal of CELC is to ensure every student leaves our halls Kindergarten STRONG. We focus on a holistic approach to development, including:

• Academic Foundations: Preparing students for solid foundational skills in literacy and mathematics.
• Social & Emotional Growth: Building the confidence and empathy needed to thrive.
• Community Partnerships: Working hand-in-hand with families to support our students.

Learn more about the CELC at www.charlottesvilleschools.org/preschool

Information about registering children for kindergarten/other grades will be released in the spring.

Dr. Elizabeth Korab
Principal, Charlottesville Early Learning Center