Early Start CT
*School Readiness funded programs will now be called Early Start CT, effective July 1, 2025.*
What is Early Start CT? (Formerly School Readiness)
- Early Start CT is a state-funded initiative administered by the Office of Early Childhood
- Open to Norwalk residents ONLY
- Serves children ages 3 and 4
- Children are required to attend daily - 5 days a week, 6 hours per day.
- Programs follow the NPS calendar
- Family fees are based on income and family size using the OEC Fee Schedule
- At least 60 percent of the children enrolled must be at or below 75 percent of the State Median Income.
- Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
- Using Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CTELDS), preschool children receive high-quality learning experiences that foster and optimize growth and development
- Promotes parental involvement in their child’s development and education
Preliminary Application
Starting February 3, 2025, the Preliminary Application will be available for the 2025-2026 school year. Click here to apply.
Children need to be 3 years old on or before September 1, 2025.
Applications are received on a first come first serve basis.
Children are not automatically enrolled. You will be contacted by phone if your child receives a spot.
Locations and Times
Early Start CT Programs
Norwalk Early Childhood Collaborative
The Mayor and the Superintendent of schools jointly appoint and convene the Norwalk Early Childhood Council with the responsibility of making recommendations on issues related to the School Readiness Grant and Early Childhood issues throughout the city the of Norwalk. All preschool programs who receive School Readiness funded are monitored by the Norwalk Early Childhood Council.
