Georgia DECAL Bright from the Start Pre-Kindergarten

Parents and guardians of Effingham County students who are interested in the Georgia DECAL Bright from the Start Pre-Kindergarten Program for the 2026–2027 school year are encouraged to begin the registration process starting January 26, 2026.

To be considered for the program, families must complete the online registration application before scheduling a mandatory appointment. All required supporting documents must be uploaded online or brought to the appointment before a child can be entered into the lottery drawing for one of 620 available Pre-K slots.

Eligibility Requirements

• Children must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2026.

• The parent or legal guardian must reside in Effingham County during the 2026–2027 school year.

• Only eligible children with completed registration requirements will be entered into the April 22nd lottery drawing.

Registration & Appointment Information

• Online registration opens January 26, 2026, at www.effinghamschools.com

• All families must schedule and attend a mandatory, in-person appointment

• Appointments will be held at the Effingham County Board of Education in Springfield

• Appointment dates: Wednesday, March 11 – Friday, April 10

• Appointment times: 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Monday–Friday

The Effingham County School System is excited to offer this high-quality Pre-K program to our families. Georgia Pre-K provides children with a strong foundation for learning and is a wonderful opportunity to start their educational journey on the right path.

The Early Learning Team looks forward to partnering with you and your child as we prepare for a successful 2026–2027 school year!