It all begins in Pre-K.
Pre-Kindergarten is the foundational year of our program, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and growth. We encourage families to apply for our Pre-K program, as it is designed to provide children with the essential skills and experiences needed for future academic success.
While most students begin in Pre-K, we also accept a limited number of Kindergarten applicants each year. Families interested in First and Second Grade should contact the admission office for information on possible openings.
Upcoming Admission Events
Admission Coffees
Admission Coffees offer an informal introduction to Primary Day. Each event begins with an overview of our program led by our Head of School, followed by an informative Q&A session.
After the session, join us for an optional small-group tour to see our students in action during the school day.
Admission Open House
Join us for a unique opportunity to experience Primary Day. Rotate through classrooms for interactive presentations that bring our program and teaching approach to life, while engaging with our faculty and school leaders.
Ready to apply?
Below is a list of everything you need to begin the admission process:
Inquiry Form
To begin the process, please fill out our Inquiry Form.
For additional information, contact us at admission@theprimarydayschool.org or (301) 365-4355.
Visit Primary Day
We encourage all prospective parents to visit our campus. Attend an admission event listed above or schedule an individual tour to see our school in action.
To schedule an individual tour, email or call us at
admission@theprimarydayschool.org
(301) 365-4355 x114
Apply
The application for the 2027-2028 school year is open. There is a $75 application fee, which can be paid online through our secure payment portal.
For questions, contact us at admission@theprimarydayschool.org or (301) 365-4355.
Applicant age guidelines for the 2027-28 school year:
- Pre-Kindergarten applicants should be 4 years old by September 1, 2027.
- Kindergarten applicants should be 5 years old by September 1, 2027.
- First Grade applicants should be 6 years old by September 1, 2027.
- Second Grade applicants should be 7 years old by September 1, 2027.
Key dates and details to keep in mind before you apply:
- Application / Supporting Documents deadline: January 15, 2027
- Decision Notification: February 26, 2027
- Reply Date: March 12, 2027
Student Visits
Pre-K and Kindergarten Applicants
Your child will come for two required visits:
- Individual assessment on a weekday morning in January or February
- Saturday morning classroom visit on January 23, 2027 (snow date: January 30)
First and Second Grade Applicants
- Your child will spend a half-day in a classroom at their current grade level on a school day, with time set aside for an individual assessment.
Once you have submitted your application, our Admission Team will contact you to schedule your child’s individual assessment or visit.
Recommendations and Records
Teacher Recommendation
A recommendation from the current homeroom teacher is required for all applicants. However, if a Pre-K applicant does not have a current classroom teacher, a recommendation from an outside instructor is acceptable.
Teacher Recommendation forms can be found on Ravenna.
We use the Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington (AISGW) common recommendation form.
Please submit the Teacher Recommendation form through Ravenna, or email to admission@theprimarydayschool.org by January 15, 2027.
School Records
School records are required for all applicants. If the applicant’s current school does not provide school records, please have a school administrator indicate this on the Request for School Records form.
The Request for School Records form can be found on Ravenna.
Families should submit the Request for School Records form to their child’s current school well in advance of the January 15, 2027 deadline.
For all application process questions please contact:
Jessie Kasenetz
Director of Advancement & Enrollment Management
(301) 365-4355 x112
j.kasenetz@theprimarydayschool.org
Alison Collins
Associate Director for Enrollment
(301) 365-4355 x114
a.collins@theprimarydayschool.org