Early Childhood Education & Development

A child’s developmental years are critical in setting them up for success in their future. Their experiences and education have a significant impact on their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Pre-kindergarten education has proven to be critical in providing children with the skills they need to excel in their educational career; children who attend pre-k are more likely to complete high school with lower rates of suspension and attend college. However, in Texas, over 70% of children are unable to enroll in state-funded preschool, especially children from low-income families. The Mayor's Office of Education and Youth engagement is determined to close this access gap and expand early childhood education & development in Houston.

Bezos Academy

The City of Houston, through the Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement, in partnership with the Bezos Academy aims to reduce the pre-school access gap. The Bezos Academy is designed to nurture the potential in every child to become a creative leader, original thinker, and lifelong learner by increasing access to early childhood education in under-resourced communities.

The partnership will offer access to tuition-free, Montessori-inspired preschools in the cities most historically under-resourced communities. The preschools offer year-round programming, five days a week, for children ages 3-5 years old.

Additional partner organizations include Community Family Centers, New Hope Housing, and San Jacinto College. To find out if you are eligible for enrollment, click here.

Currently Open Bezos Academies:

Click the images below to apply and find out more information.

For more information about the Bezos Academy, please email moedu@houstontx.gov.