What is the Alabama First Class Pre-K Program?
First Class: Alabama's Voluntary Pre-K is part of the Office of School Readiness within the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. First Class Pre-K provides effective, high-quality early childhood experiences that prepare Alabama's children for school success and lifelong learning.
Where are the First Class Pre-K classes located?
First Class Pre-K is located at iAcademy at Athens Elementary , HEART Academy at Julian Newman, FAME Academy at Brookhill, and SPARK Academy at Cowart
Who is eligible to enroll in the Alabama First Class Pre-K Program?
- Children age 4 on or before September 1, 2025 (FY25)
- Children must live within Athens City Limits
- Children must be fully toilet trained
- Required documents for enrollment: completed registration form, parent/guardian photo ID, current utility bill (or proof of residency) and birth certificate. Upon acceptance, an Alabama immunization form will be required before your child enters school.
How are the children selected?
- ACS Alabama First Class Pre-K selection is by lottery.
- Please note, if multiple Pre-K locations are requested, consideration will be made based on school proximity to residence.
- The spring lottery selection will take place on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 8:00 AM at the Athens City Schools Board of Education Board Room. This event is open to the public.
- Families will be notified of the selection during the month of April.
When is Registration?
- Online registration for the 2025-2026 school year runs from January 15 - March 19.
- Following the close of registration in the spring, interested students and families are placed on a waitlist.
Who Do I Contact With Questions?
For more information about the First Class Pre-K Programs in Athens City Schools, please contact Jared Paschall, OSR First Class Pre-K Program Director, at jared.paschall@acs-k12.org