Important Info For Parents of CPS Pre-Schoolers

Friends of the 46th Ward Schools has sent in this time-sensitive information for parents:

"CPS has changed the process for application to PFA (Preschool for All) Programs and has released information on the process as of today.  Here are the major changes that Uptown residents should be aware of.

• ALL applicants must reapply for the program unless the child is a 3 year old currently enrolled in a program for the 2012-2013 that is continuing.  The application period begins tomorrow, April 3rd, and goes through May 3rd.  The closest location to apply to the program for Uptown residents is McPherson Elementary School, 4728 N. Wolcott, between the hours of 8:00am and 3:00pm Monday through Friday.  On Saturday, April 13th, 19th, and 26th parents may apply at CPS Central Office, 125 S. Clark St, between the hours of 8:30am and 12:00pm.
• ALL PFA programs had to resubmit applications to continue their program for the 2013-2014 school year.  As of this evening it appears that Principals have not been told whether they have funding for their programs.  Therefore, it would be probably be prudent for parents to submit an application for children currently enrolled in a program, or at a minimum check directly with their school to determine the status of their program for next year.  The listing of schools hosting PFA programs next year is not currently available on the CPS website within the application materials.  
• CPS has instituted a new sliding scale fee schedule for the program which is based on number of family members in the household and family income.  Families will pay between $0 and $427.70 on a monthly basis.  The fee schedule can be found here.

More information for interested parties can be found at http://cps.edu/schools/earlychildhood/Pages/EarlyChildhood.aspx."