The City of Renton has signed a 15-year lease with Bezos Academy to open a tuition-free, Montessori-inspired preschool in the North Highlands Neighborhood Center in 2022.

“Finding quality and affordable preschool programming is difficult for many of our families, and COVID has increased that challenge, said Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone. “Adding the Bezos Academy is an investment in our children by providing them quality programming during their critical developmental years.”

The academy results from consultation with multiple civic agencies and community organizations, including Renton School District.

“On average, about half of all preschool-aged kids in the U.S. aren’t in school,” said Mike George, President of Bezos Academy. “For too many, preschool isn’t an option due to cost or because there isn’t enough availability. We’re honored to offer an early learning solution at no cost to the families of Renton.”

The Bezos Academy preschool will be located at the North Highlands Neighborhood Center. It is slated to open multiple classrooms in 2022 following renovations by Bezos Academy. The academy will follow a full-day, year-round schedule.

Families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty limit with children aged three to four can apply. Once the school opening date is set, more information and an application to the lottery-based selection process will be posted at bezosacademy.org/.