Preschool CDS Code Guidance

California State Preschool Programs (CSPPs) administered by a local educational agency (LEA) shall be assigned separate and unique CDS codes. The CDS code assignment for CSPPs is handled by the Early Education Division (EED). Please contact EED at capsdac@cde.ca.gov for more information on obtaining a CDS code for a CSPP.

LEAs may administer both CSPPs and other non-CSPPs. For all other preschool programs administered by an LEA, the following guidelines shall be adhered to when determining when to issue a school code to a preschool.

1. If a preschool program is located on an elementary school campus or satellite facility serving non-special education preschoolers and/or special education preschoolers and is under the elementary school’s administration, the elementary school administering the preschool program shall change its grade levels offered to include preschool and shall encompass the preschool program. In this situation, a separate school code shall not be issued to the preschool.
2. If non-special education preschool programs are administered by the LEA, the LEA may apply for a single school code for these preschool programs.
3. LEAs, or schools within an LEA administering one or more special education preschool programs, regardless of location, may apply for a single school code for these preschool programs.

LEAs who wish to apply for a CDS code for LEA operated preschool programs that meet the criteria in items 2 and 3 above shall use the online Application for a CDS Code. The application for a CDS Code must be completed and signed by superintendent. Local board Minutes showing local approval for a preschool are not required for a special education preschool CDS code. Board meeting minutes showing local approval are required for a public non-special education preschool CDS code.

Resources

Child Care and Development Programs
Information on CSPPs and other child care and development programs.