Frequently Asked Questions
How old does my child need to be to enroll?
Your child must be four by September 30 in order to be considered for that school year.
What determines if my child will be accepted into the program?
State funding guidelines require PCS to identify and serve those children most at-risk. As such, each child applying for the EXCEL preschool program completes a screening process: academic performance, social and emotional well-being along with environmental risk factors such as poverty, homelessness, and foster care are considered. A child with a disability who has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is given priority status.
Do the children attend class all week?
The EXCEL program follows a full-day schedule in accordance with the PCS calendar.
Do they bring their lunch?
Lunch and breakfast in the cafeteria are currently free of charge for all students; however, students do have the option to pack their lunch if they choose. Snacks are also provided.
Do they take a nap?
The EXCEL program does set aside time in the daily schedule for rest time in the afternoons.
What supplies are needed?
The school will provide all supplies, as no participation fees of any kind may be charged to parents under our state funding guidelines. The only items that parents will need to provide are a change of clothes, a small blanket/towel for rest time, and a book bag that will accommodate a folder.
Should I send a change of clothes?
We do ask parents to send a change of clothes in case of an accident.
What is a typical day like?
Students will experience a wide variety of learning activities, including whole group and small group settings, as well as exploration at learning centers and time spent outdoors.
What kind of shoes should my child wear?
For safety reasons, we have found that tennis shoes work best!
Does my child need to have a physical?
A school physical is required before your child can be accepted into the program and must have been completed within one year prior to the date of school starting. This can be completed at any family doctor's office. Children without a current physical on file at the school may not begin school. Physical forms (school entrance health form) are available on our website under the "Application" tab.
Can I apply for the EXCEL program if I live in another county?
If you reside in a county other than Pittsylvania, we cannot offer your child a spot as our funding is available only to Pittsylvania County residents.
I just moved here and it is in the middle of the school year. Can my child still get in?
Please contact your school for the latest information on available spots. The online application process must still be completed.
Are there any fees with the EXCEL program?
There are no fees to attend public preschool.