OSSE Opens 2026–27 PKEEP High-Quality Designation Application for DC Pre-K Providers

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) has posted the application for the 2026–27 school year High-Quality Designation under the Prekindergarten Enhancement and Expansion Program (PKEEP). The announcement, published on OSSE's website, notifies early-childhood providers, DC public schools and public charter schools that materials for applying for High-Quality Designation are now available for programs that seek PKEEP funding for next school year.

The High-Quality Designation is part of OSSE's process for allocating PKEEP resources; programs that hold the designation are assessed against standards tied to prekindergarten quality. OSSE's posting includes the application form and related guidance intended to help providers determine eligibility, compile required documentation and submit a complete application through the agency's prescribed channels.

Who should consider applying

Child-care centers, community-based early-childhood programs, public prekindergarten classrooms and charter school programs that currently participate in or plan to participate in PKEEP should review the materials. OSSE's notice is addressed to any local providers pursuing PKEEP funding and to families who rely on those programs for prekindergarten placement in the District.

The designation typically factors into funding decisions and program supports administered by OSSE. Providers that receive a High-Quality Designation in past cycles have used it to confirm program standards for staff qualifications, classroom environment, curriculum, and other quality indicators that OSSE requires for enhanced funding tiers under prekindergarten initiatives.

What the posting includes

OSSE's web posting includes the application packet and instructions for submission, plus contacts for technical questions. The notice also directs applicants to the agency's online resources for application troubleshooting, and encourages providers to gather required records and program data before applying. Those materials are available on the OSSE site linked below.

OSSE has historically tied PKEEP funding to program quality measures as the District expands access to free prekindergarten; this application round begins the administrative process for determining which providers meet the High-Quality Designation criteria for the 2026–27 school year.

Interested providers should consult OSSE's posted materials for specific documentation requirements and submission instructions, and confirm timelines on the agency site.

Watch for OSSE to publish application deadlines, technical-assistance sessions, or updated guidance on its website; those items will determine when providers must assemble materials and submit applications for consideration.