During the 2017 WV legislative session, delegates put forward Senate Bill 186, which changed the eligibility date for 4-year-olds statewide. Legislators felt that this was in the best interest of students and educational facilities. The bill was signed by the Governor and is now law.
Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, the age and month cutoff for WV preschoolers has changed. Children must be 4-years-old on or before June 30, 2018, to enroll in preschool beginning in the Fall of 2018. There is no early entrance option for pre-k students.
Beginning with the 2019-2020 school year, the age and month cutoff for WV K students will change. Children will have to be 5-years-old on or before June 30, 2019, to enroll in K beginning in the Fall of 2019. Early entrance testing will be available for students who turn five by July 15, 2019.
Why was this change made?
During the 2017 WV legislative session, delegates put forward Senate Bill 186, which changed the eligibility date for 4-year-olds statewide. Legislators felt that this was in the best interest of students and educational facilities. The bill was signed by the Governor and is now law.
So, if my child turns four on July 1, they will not be eligible in 2018?
That is correct. Your child must turn 4 before July 1, 2018, in order to be eligible for 2018-2019 preschool. For 2019-2020 kindergarten, your child must turn five before July 1.
So, my child with a birthday between July 1 and Aug. 31, 2018, will begin Pre-K as a five-year-old in 2019?
That is correct. Depending on their birthday, they may begin preschool as a 4-year-old or 5-year-old.
Is there any exception to this rule or anything that can be done?
Unfortunately, no. This change is now law across West Virginia. Limited three-year-old slots are available for income eligible and students with identified special needs.
What was the cutoff date in previous years?
Previously, students could begin preschool if their 4th birthday was on or before Aug. 31 and K if their 5th birthday was on or before Aug. 31.
The Greenbrier County Schools Preschool staff may be reached at 304-647-7105.