Lottery Process

Tentative Timeline for the 2027–2028 School Year
Dates are tentative and contingent upon timelines, guidance, and funding established by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE).
Information Session
Families interested in the 2027–2028 Mini-Mounties Preschool Program are encouraged to attend our annual Information Session on Thursday, December 17, 2026, from 6:30–8:00 PM at the Montclair Early Learning Academy (MELA), 176 N. Fullerton Avenue.
Representatives from participating preschool sites will be available, and families will have an opportunity to learn more about the Mini-Mounties program, participating locations, the registration and placement process, and what to expect for the 2027–2028 school year.
Preschool Site Tours
Participating preschool sites will offer opportunities for prospective families to learn more about their programs during our Preschool Site Tour Window, January 6–14, 2027.
Specific tour dates, times, locations, and sign-up information for participating sites will be posted as they are confirmed.
Please note: To ensure student safety and preserve meaningful instructional time, in-district preschool classrooms do not offer tours during the school day. 
Lottery
Lottery for the 2027–2028 Mini-Mounties Preschool Program is tentatively scheduled to open on January 15, 2027 and close on January 29, 2027.
Families interested in a preschool placement should complete the application during the window. Additional information regarding eligibility, the application process, required information, and access to the online application will be posted prior to the opening of the lottery.
Placement Process
Placement notifications are anticipated to be sent in early March 2027.
Families who receive and accept a placement will then be provided with instructions for completing the Montclair Public Schools registration process. District registration for accepted families is anticipated to open in mid-March 2027.
Important Information About Preschool Seats
The number of preschool classrooms and available seats for the 2027–2028 school year is contingent upon the release of the state budget, continued preschool funding, and guidance from the New Jersey Department of Education.
Dates and procedures listed above are tentative and may be adjusted as additional information and timelines are provided by NJDOE. Updates will be posted on this page as they become available.
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