We are pleased to announce that enrollment for Grainger County’s Voluntary Pre-K program will open on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. All Grainger County families with children who will be 4 years old by August 15, 2026, are encouraged to apply. Pre-K classes are available at Bean Station, Joppa, Rutledge Primary, and Washburn School, with each location able to enroll 20 students based on eligibility criteria.
Enrollment Priority
Priority enrollment is given to children who meet income requirements outlined by the 2026 U.S. Health and Human Services Poverty Guidelines. For example, the total gross income for a family of four should be less than $61050.00. Income verification (such as a check stub or W2) will be required.
Beginning September 15, if seats remain open, programs may enroll children who qualify as otherwise at risk.
Program Highlights
Grainger County’s Pre-K program is staffed with highly trained educators skilled in supporting fine motor development, cognitive and language growth, and social–emotional learning. The Tennessee Voluntary Pre-K initiative provides meaningful early-learning experiences that help young children—especially those considered at risk—build strong school-readiness skills. These classrooms offer a nurturing, academically rich environment that inspires a love of learning and prepares children for success in kindergarten and beyond.
Benefits of Pre-K
Participation in Pre-K helps children develop foundational social, academic, and emotional skills. Children who learn self-regulation, cooperation, and early learning routines in Pre-K enter kindergarten more prepared—an especially important advantage for students who may face early learning barriers.
Why Pre-K Matters
Investing in early education strengthens our entire community. High-quality Pre-K helps narrow achievement gaps, improves graduation rates, and supports the development of responsible, capable citizens. By supporting students from Pre-K through high school graduation, we help ensure every child in Grainger County has access to high-quality educational opportunities.
Enrollment Details
Enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year begins March 17, 2026. Information and application materials will be available on the Grainger County Schools website through a link to the Pre-K program page. Families may also contact individual schools to schedule an appointment for application packet pick-up.
School Contact Numbers
- Bean Station: 865-767-2131
- Joppa: 865-828-5721
- Rutledge Primary: 865-828-5614
- Washburn School: 865-497-2556
Teachers will reach out to families in May once registration documents have been reviewed. At that time, income verification must be provided.
Please note: Applications cannot be accepted before March 17, 2026.
If you have questions about enrollment or the registration process, please contact Ginny McElhaney at 865-828-5436.