Multnomah County, Ore. (April 23, 2026) — Multnomah County announced today it is extending the application deadline for Preschool for All to Thursday, May 14, 2026. Originally scheduled to close on April 30, this extension gives families an additional two weeks to apply for the 2026-27 school year.
Preschool for All offers families a range of preschool options, including community-based programs, school-based classrooms, and home-based care, all at no cost to enrolled families. The program is on track to offer its largest number of seats yet for the 2026-27 school year, with over 7,000 seats confirmed.
Preschool for All, overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2020, creates stability and a strong educational foundation for thousands of Multnomah County households, while also saving families 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 can then be reinvested into the local economy.
“This is our biggest year yet, and we want to ensure every family has the opportunity to participate,” said Danisa McLean, Director of the County’s Preschool & Early Learning Division. “By extending the deadline to May 14, we are making sure that busy families have the extra time they need to explore their options and apply for high-quality, free preschool.”
To help raise awareness about the application window, marking the program’s largest expansion to date, the Morrison Bridge will glow in Preschool for All’s signature colors from Thursday, April 23 to Saturday, April 25. Beyond the visual bridge display, the County is amplifying its outreach through digital and TriMet bus advertisements, along with direct engagement with eligible families across the community to ensure everyone has the chance to apply.
How to apply
Families can apply online and rank up to eight preschool sites that meet their needs. Most placements will be made through a spring lottery, with additional opportunities available later in the year.
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.
Families interested in applying for free, high-quality preschool for their eligible 3- and 4-year-olds should visit the application website at 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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