Early Childhood Center » How to Apply

How to Apply

How to Apply for the Early Childhood Development Center

Thank you for your interest in having your child attend our Nelson Mandela Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC)! Our vision and program are designed to be a catalyst that helps children reach their educational goals and fulfill their potential. In order to fulfill our vision and make sure we are best serving our community, we have a thorough application process. Please read all details below to understand the process.

Criteria:

Age
Children must be 2 years old by June 1 in order to apply for the school year starting in August.

Income:

The ECDC is an income-eligible program. Potential scholars are prioritized for acceptance based on the following criteria.

  • Qualifies for free or reduced lunch through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
  • Receives state child care subsidies
  • Lives within two miles of the Mandela campus
 

Family Engagement:

ECDC is interested in families who are ready to commit to the requirements of completing 35 hours of engagement activities each school year, which includes a commitment to attendance, punctuality, supporting a child’s academics, school community, and extracurricular interests.

Required Documentation: 

  • Child's birth certificate (raised seal)

  • Child's social security card (original)

  • Current immunization record for child

  • Valid parent or guardian photo ID and guardian documents (if applicable)

  • Proof of address (utility bill, mortgage or lease agreement, tax info, or most recent pay stub)

  • Proof of income (most recent pay stubs or tax documents)

Application Timeline

First Monday in April: Applications will be available for pick up at the ECDC between 9:00am - 3:00pm. Applications are first come, first served, and there is a limit of 2 per person.

Mid-April: Completed applications and required documents are due. Incomplete applications will be placed on the waiting list.

End of April - Beginning of May: Families will receive communication regarding next steps and/or the status of their child’s enrollment.

Connection to Nelson Mandela Elementary School

Families who attend the Nelson Mandela Early Childhood Development Center will be guaranteed an interview for potential kindergarten enrollment at Nelson Mandela Elementary. Families who are in good standing with attendance, punctuality, and family engagement will receive priority acceptance into the elementary school program.

Contact

Address: 3020 Curtis Avenue / Omaha, NE 68111

Phone: (531) 201-3446