Last verified: October 2026
What is Durham PreK and who runs it?
Durham PreK is a pre-K initiative paid for by Durham County Government and managed by Early Years Inc., with partners such as Durham's Partnership for Children and Durham Public Schools. Its goal is high-quality, equitable pre-K for every four-year-old in Durham County.
The program began with five pilot classrooms in 2019 and opened its first full year that August with 16 sites and 28 classrooms. It has grown since; ask for current openings.
How does a Durham parent apply to Durham PreK?
Start at durhamprek.org or call 1-833-773-5883 (1-833-PREK-EDU). We could not confirm the 2026-27 cost rules or application dates on the program's pages, so ask about both when you call.
Durham families can also look at NC Pre-K, which shares classrooms with the county effort in many cases, and at child care subsidy for younger siblings.
Durham PreK: what it is, and what it is not
| Durham PreK is | Durham PreK is not |
|---|---|
| Paid for by Durham County | A statewide program, or one open to Wake or Orange residents |
| For the year before kindergarten | Care for infants, toddlers or school-age children |
| Delivered at participating sites | A voucher you can take to any preschool |