CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Applications are now open for Mecklenburg County’s fully funded pre-K program.

What You Need To Know

  • Pre-K or preschool experience helps children perform better throughout their education and beyond, Mecklenburg's county manager says

  • The program is fully funded by Mecklenburg County, but spaces are limited

  • Parents can find applications on MeckPrek.org

County manager Dena Diorio says an early start on education can have long-term benefits.

“The research is very clear that children that have access to a high quality pre-school or pre-K experience do better — not just in terms of their reading and how they do in their K-12 experience, but the benefits actually last their entire lifetime,” she said.

She added that includes how much money they earn through their lives, and they’re less likely to get involved in the criminal justice system, too.

There are 1,800 available slots, but Diorio says they fill up fast. Children must be 4 years old on or before Aug. 31 and live in the county to qualify for the program.

Parents can apply online at MeckPrek.org or request a paper application by calling 704-943-9585.