Navigating the enrollment process
Thank you for your interest in Options for Learning!
This page is designed to help you understand the next steps, find helpful resources, and ensure you have everything needed to complete the enrollment process as smoothly and quickly as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact our Enrollment Department should you have any questions.
To apply for Options for Learning center-based programs, families must qualify under the State Median Income (SMI) and/or Federal Poverty Income guidelines. Families with children ages 0-5 and pregnant mothers who meet the income requirements may apply.
✅ Enrollment checklist for parents
Use this checklist to ensure you have everything ready to expedite the enrollment process. The items below reflect the most commonly accepted documents. In some cases, we may ask for additional information to meet state or federal requirements.
1. Proof of income (include all that apply):
- Recent paycheck stubs: 30 days of paystubs for steady wages and/or 12 months of paystubs for fluctuating wages (variable work schedules, overtime, bonuses, incentives, or tips);
- Child support documentation;
- Public assistance verification (e.g., CalWORKs);
- Unemployment (EDD) statement;
- Proof of participation in government programs (e.g., CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs Notice of Action, WIC).
Your enrollment specialist will inform you of the number of months needed for proof of income.
2. Proof of family size (include any one of the following for each child in the household under the age of 18):
- Birth certificate;
- Baptismal record;
- Hospital birth record/certificate;
- Legal documents showing the child’s name, birthdate, and parents’ names.
3. Proof of address (include any one of the following):
- Utility bill (from the last month);
- Driver’s license;
- Rental/lease agreement;
- Car registration;
- Parent declaration required if currently unhoused.
4. Applicable for Early Learning Programs only (ages 0 to 5)
- Up-to-date immunization records for enrolling children ages 0-5
5. Medical insurance card
- Copy of current insurance card for the enrolling child(ren)
6. Physical exam and TB test
- Completed physical exam and TB clearance within the past year
7. Dental exam
- Dental exam completed within the last 6 months
About our center-based programs
Options for Learning's center-based programs are primarily funded by federal, state, and local government contracts. As a result, we are able to assist lower-income families who are working, attending college or vocational training, or seeking employment. Families who do not meet the state or federal eligibility guidelines and would like to enroll their children may be able to access fee-based spaces in some of our programs.
Options for Learning welcomes children with disabilities in all our programs provided the child can be safely and successfully served in the program. Our Inclusion and Wellness Department works closely with families, school districts, and our program staff to ensure that children with special needs can thrive in their school environment. Some families may qualify regardless of income.
Priority is given to families who are at risk, in crisis, or have an active case with the Department of Children and Family Services.
Please note: Eligibility can only be determined once documentation is received and reviewed by our staff. When speaking with an intake specialist, preliminary eligibility is determined based on the information provided at the time by the parent or guardian.