Update to SchoolChoice and Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado

DPS is partnering with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (“CDEC”) to continue expanding its Early Childhood Education program to more students and families. 

Preschool, also called Early Childhood Education, or ECE, helps young children develop cognitively, socially and emotionally. This strong foundation readies them to enter the elementary years successfully and continue their joy of learning. 

The SchoolChoice process for ECE families will be much different than in previous years due to Colorado voters passing Proposition EE in 2020 which Governor Polis signed into law in April 2022. Under the new state program, Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado, families will be following the CDEC’s new application and lottery process to match their child with quality voluntary preschool at more than 80 schools in DPS or through private providers. There are a lot of unknowns, so families are encouraged to apply early to best navigate this new process.

Families must complete both applications to apply to a DPS ECE program.

Learn more about the ECE and Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado registration process here.