Multnomah County’s Preschool for All program announced today that applications are officially open for the 2026–27 school year, as the program prepares for its largest and most expansive year yet. Applications will be accepted from 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 1 to 11:59 p.m. Thursday, April 30, 2026 for any child in Multnomah County who will be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2026 — regardless of household income, ZIP code, or language.
Research is clear that the earliest years of a child’s life are among the most formative, and early childhood education sets them up for lifelong success. Preschool for All is Multnomah County voters’ commitment to making sure every child has access to that foundation, regardless of their family’s income or ZIP code.
“Our growth reflects years of engagement with families, educators, and community organizations who helped shape a program that directly meets community needs,” said Danisa McLean, director of the Preschool & Early Learning Division. “We are proud to offer a program that not only supports our children’s development but also strengthens our local economy by investing in small businesses and the early childhood workforce.”
More providers, more locations, more choices
Families can choose from a wide range of options, including preschools at childcare centers, community centers, school-based classrooms, and individual homes. This flexibility allows parents to find a fit that works for their specific schedules and locations.
Preschool for All creates stability for thousands of Multnomah County households, saving families tens of thousands of dollars each year on childcare costs. By making early education more affordable and boosting parents' earnings, the program frees up household income that is then reinvested into the economy.
Casey Helwig, a parent of two children enrolled in Preschool for All, says the program was a game-changer for her family’s future.
“Preschool for All eased the financial burden of childcare and allowed us to invest in ourselves,” Helwig said. “While our kids were in preschool, my husband earned his master’s degree, and I went back to school to finish my bachelor’s. Thanks to this program, we were able to advance our careers while raising our children in Multnomah County.”
How to apply
Families can apply through April 30 and choose up to eight preschool programs on their application, including schools, home-based care sites, and center-based care. Families are encouraged to apply early and explore all available options to find the best fit for their child.
Families can also get free, one-on-one support from trained Family Navigators, available in multiple languages, to help them understand their options and find the right fit.
Most seats will be filled during the spring lottery. Later in the summer, the application will reopen for new applicants to apply for remaining seats or to be placed on a waiting list.
To learn more or apply, visit pfa.multco.us.
About Preschool for All
Preschool for All is a locally funded program offering free, high-quality preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds in Multnomah County. Launched in fall 2022 following support from voters in November 2020, Preschool for All aims for universal access by 2030. The program supports small businesses, pays educators wages above the state average, and ensures children have safe, engaging spaces to learn and grow. Learn more at pfa.multco.us.
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