FAQs
FAQs
How do I know if my child qualifies for Pre-K?
Students eligible for free Pre-K must meet ONE of the following criteria:
✔️is unable to speak and comprehend the English language (An oral language proficiency test will be administered to determine eligibility).
✔️is economically disadvantaged (which means a student is eligible to participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program. Proof of household income for the past 1 month required or a copy of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) letter with Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number listed.
✔️is homeless, as defined by 42 U.S.C. Section 1143a, regardless of the residence of the child, of either parent of the child, or of the child's guardian or other person having lawful control of the child (as determined by BISD Student Residency Questionnaire: English Spanish)
✔️is the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority (DOD/VA documentation required)
✔️is the child of a member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty (DOD/VA documentation required)
✔️is or ever has been in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (foster care) following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code (Form 2085E is required)
✔️is the child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Award as: a peace officer under Section 3106.002, Government Code; a firefighter under Section 3106.003, Government Code; or an emergency medical first responder under Section 3106.004, Government Code
How old does my child need to be to enroll in Pre-K?
A child must be 4 years old on or before September 1.
What is the income level for a household to qualify as economically disadvantaged?
The income level is based on the National School Lunch Program income eligibility guidelines established by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.
Click here to see if you qualify: Pre-K Eligibility
Do I need to provide current income level documentation to the school for my child who qualifies as economically disadvantaged?
Yes. In order for a student to qualify, the student's family is required to provide the school with current income level documentation.
Does my child have to go to prekindergarten if he or she is eligible?
No. Pre-K is not mandatory. However, upon enrollment in Pre-K, a child must attend school. All students are subject to compulsory attendance rules while they are enrolled in school.
What documents do I need to enroll?
Immunization record - Shot record must be up to date before a student can be registered. View Requirements for Pre-K
Proof of residence - lease agreement, utility bill, or other proof of physical address
Photo identification of parent/guardian who is registering the student.
Birth certificate or any other legal document that establishes student's identity and age
Social Security Card or a copy. If the student does not have a Social Security Card, a state number will be assigned. [optional]
Last month's income (pay stub) for everyone in the household
Last year's W-2 or tax statement
Any other form of income (child support, SSI, SSB, Unemployment, Veterans benefits, disability, net rental income, self-employment, military LES, Medicaid, CHIP, TANF, WIC, Food Stamps)
Will my child be able to attend Boys and Girls Club for after school care?
The Bandera County Boys and Girls Club does not serve 4 year olds in their program.
Is transportation available for my child?
Yes. BISD bus services will follow regular morning and after school routes and Prek enrolled students may ride the bus.
Are breakfast and lunch provided for the students?
Free/reduced cost meals will only be available based on eligibility. The application for free/reduced lunch will be available online.
Breakfast and lunch are provided to students in the Head Start program at no cost.