Preschool Eligibility Requirements
Children must meet the program qualifications listed below:
- Age: The child must be 3 years old at the time of enrollment.
- For Allen and Olympic View Elementary, the child must be 4 on or before December 2.
- Immunizations: The child must have three polio, four DTP, three Hep B, one Varicella, one MMR, and one HIB. The MMR and HIB must be given on or after the first birthday.
- Residence: Priority is given to families within the Chula Vista Elementary School District boundaries.
- Income: Family income must fall within State guidelines for low income according to family size.
- Income Eligibility Chart (Coming Soon - Exceptions may apply, please inquire for more information).
While most of our programs have income eligibility requirements, families residing within the boundaries of the following schools automatically qualify for free preschool—income is waived, but income documents are still necessary. Additional eligibility options may be available. Please contact our preschool office for more information.
- Harborside Elementary School
- Lauderbach Elementary School
- Otay Elementary School
- Vista Square Elementary School
Age Requirement
For 2026-27 school year children must be 3 years old (with the exception of Allen and Olympic View Elementary as noted above) and working toward bathroom independence if not already fully independent.
Required Documentation
Verification of income:
Proof of most recent income for the last 30 consecutive days from the parent(s)/ guardian(s). This includes checks, paystubs (for both parents if applicable), cash aid, food stamps, Section 8, disability, pension, unemployment, child support, any other government assistance or family support. If self-employed please contact the preschool office for required documentation.
State-issued photo identification for parent/legal guardian:
A valid state-issued photo identification card for parent/legal guardian (e.g., Driver’s License, Military ID card, Passport).
Student’s birth verification:
Birth Certificate
Student's immunization record:
The child must have three polio, four DTP, three Hep B, one Varicella, one MMR, and one HIB. The MMR and HIB must be given on or after the first birthday.
Verification of residency
In order to verify residency one current document dated within 30 days of your child's first day of school must be provided, showing parent/caregiver/guardian name and address.
Acceptable documents:
- Mortgage booklet or statement
- Homeowner's Association billing statement
- Rental property contract, lease, and current payment receipt with landlord's name, address, and phone number
- Letter on apartment complex or mobile home park letterhead, signed by the landlord, stating that parent/guardian/caregiver lives there
- Utility bills: gas and electric, sewer, trash, water, cable bill, internet
- Telephone bill (landline)
- Paystub
- Correspondence from a government agency