Lafayette Elementary offers a pre-kindergarten program to best help students learn to become self-sufficient individuals before entering Lafayette Elementary as a kindergartener. The children participating in the pre-k program progress toward mastery of developmentally appropriate language, cognitive, social, self-help, and motor skills on the Mississippi Early Childhood Curriculum.  

All students who apply will be scheduled for a screening appointment. This required testing will take place on February 16, 2026.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I apply?

**Please note, your child is not eligible to attend Pre-K this year if they will not be 4 years old BEFORE September 1, 2026.**
If your child meets the eligibility requirement, the Pre-K application will open online at 8:00am on January 26, 2026. The application is an online application available here. The application will be available from 8:00 am, January 26, 2026, through the end of the day February 6, 2026 at 4:00 pm. 

How are students selected for this program?
The students selected for this program are selected based on need. An academic screener is given and parents fill out a questionnaire to help determine the greatest need. This required testing will take place on February 16, 2026.
 
Is there tuition for this program?
No.
 
Do Pre-K students attend school all day?
Yes. Our Pre-K Program follows the same schedule as Lafayette Elementary School. Student drop-off begins at 7:00 AM. Car rider line begins at 2:30 PM.
 
Can Pre-K students ride the bus?
No, parents of Pre-K students must provide transportation to and from school. YMCA Afterschool care is available for an additional fee.

Do we have to live in Lafayette County School District to attend Pre-K?
Yes, students must live in the Lafayette County School District to attend Pre-K.

How will I be notified my child has been accepted into Pre-K?
All parents will receive an email upon acceptance into the Pre-K.