Many Chicago Public Schools are opening doors this week for families interested in exploring the District’s free full-day preschool program for four-year-olds and half-day preschool program for three-year-olds. The School Year 2025-26 application is open on the Chicago Early Learning website and application portal.  CPS offers families a choice of high-quality preschool programs for all four-year olds as well as a limited number of part-day programs for three year olds in 372 elementary schools, with the goal of improving educational options and social outcomes for all children, particularly those with the greatest needs. The District’s preschool programs meet all federal, state and local education standards and all schools are engaged in continuous quality improvement. Preschool programs are awarded a Gold, Silver or Bronze Circle of Quality on an annual basis as determined by ExceleRate Illinois, which conducts an independent evaluation. More information about CPS Preschool programs is available on the District’s website. Parents may also call the Chicago Early Learning Hotline at 312-229-1690 for application support in both English and Spanish.