How to Apply
Interested in becoming a part of Dulin Cooperative Preschool?
Dulin Preschool is run by parents. That’s why we understand and appreciate that parents want as straightforward an admissions policy as possible. At Dulin Preschool, we don’t require families to get on wait lists years before children are eligible (or born!), nor do we expect families to camp out in a parking lot. The application process begins with taking a tour of the preschool and/or attending our annual Open House, which takes place in late January or early February. Although it is not a requirement, we strongly encourage parents to take a tour of the school before applying. We have found that this is the best way to make sure that Dulin is a good fit for your family’s needs. Being a member of a cooperative preschool is incredibly fun and rewarding for both parents and children, but it also requires a certain amount of time, commitment, and accountability. Meeting you in person is the best way we can demonstrate what Dulin is all about and answer any questions you have. If you cannot attend our Open House, please contact our Admissions Chair to arrange a personal tour.Online Application
Here’s what you need to know to apply.
When is the upcoming Open House?
Our Open House is typically held on a Wednesday morning in late January or early February. Please check our Home Page for the confirmed date and time.
Can I complete and mail the application now for the following school year?
Yes, you can. All applications received from now through the end of our General Registration period will be added together and a lottery will be done to fill our open slots, as well as establish our wait list.
Do I have to attend the Open House to apply?
No, you do not. However we suggest and encourage you to come if your schedule permits, as our Open House provides you with great insight into our wonderful school!
When is the deadline for turning in next year's application?
Priority registration and general registration are January 15th – February 15th. Priority is given to siblings of currently enrolled students, siblings of former students, children of Church Members, and children of actively participating caregivers. General registration for any remaining spots is open to the public.
The deadline for including your child(ren)’s application(s) for entry into our initial drawing for the upcoming school year is the end of our General Registration period in mid February. Please see the Calendar of Events for details after the conclusion of Open House to make sure you don’t miss this deadline! All applications received after our first initial round of Admissions will be accepted and added to our wait list, as we will continue to fill spots as they open all the way up to the start of the school year.
What is the schedule for Open House?
Our Open House starts at 10AM with an informational program beginning shortly thereafter, followed by Q&A and a complete tour of our school.
Can I bring my child(ren)?
Yes, you can. We will have childcare available.
Do you have a make-up date for Open House due to inclement weather?
Yes, we do. Our make-up date is usually scheduled for the following week, same time. Dulin follows Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) inclement weather policy. If FCPS has a delay or closing the Open House will be rescheduled. Please see our home page for specific and up-to-date information. We will do our best to update our home page if we have any last-minute weather cancellations. Please check our site if weather is a question!
What if I miss the Open House?
All is not lost! If you cannot make the Open House, or end up missing it at the last minute, please contact Dulin’s Admissions Chair to arrange a tour.
Do I have to reapply if I applied last year and didn't receive a spot at Dulin?
Yes, you have to apply each year if you are interested in a spot for the upcoming school year. We do not have rolling admissions.
How will I learn if I’ve been accepted to Dulin?
Once the lottery has taken place in early March, the Dulin Admissions Chair will notify all those who have received a spot, as well as those who have been placed on the wait list.
Wait to hear from us. After we fill our spots with our Pre-priority applicants (current families) and Priority applicants (alumni & Dulin Church members), we hold a lottery for any remaining openings, and for our wait list. Any applications received after our first round of admissions are added to the wait list as well.
Didn’t get a spot this go-around? Let us know of your continued interest. Due to relocations and other factors, we almost always draw upon our wait list over the spring, summer, and occasionally through the fall.