Expanding Access: OECC Announces 3K Growth for 2026–2027
The Oxford Early Childhood Center (OECC) serves as the foundation for the Oxford School District’s youngest learners by offering high-quality 3K and 4K education. As enrollment continues to rise and demand for early childhood programming grows, OECC is preparing for an expansion of its 3K program for the 2026–2027 school year.
Growing Community Need
The need for additional 3K seats has become increasingly clear. This year, OECC enrolled 98 three-year-old students and experienced a waitlist at the start of school that still remains active. Families continue to express strong interest in securing placement, and district leaders are committed to meeting this demand. Plans are underway to expand 3K offerings beginning this next upcoming school year.
“We know that the earlier we can bring children into the district and place them in front of certified teachers, the less likely they are to fall behind later in their educational journey,” said Superintendent Bradley Roberson. “Expanding 3K is an investment in long-term student success.”
Benefits for Students and Families
Expanding 3K in Oxford means providing more children with access to social-emotional learning, early literacy and numeracy skills, language development, and structured play. These are all essential elements of MS kindergarten readiness. For families, the program offers earlier access to support services and the assurance of a nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment.
While the 3K program has a monthly tuition cost, tuition remains affordable in comparison to a daycare setting: $400 (full pay), $200 (reduced), and $0 (free) based on the Child Nutrition application. At this time, bus transportation is not available for 3K students.
Board of Trustees President Carter Myers emphasized the community value of the initiative. “Our board is fully committed to finding the resources necessary to expand 3K because we know the impact it will have on families, workforce stability, and long-term academic outcomes,” Myers said.
Looking Ahead
The 3K expansion reflects the Oxford School District’s long-term strategy: strengthening students’ academic trajectories by beginning early and building strong foundational skills. The district’s vision is clear — expanding access, reducing future achievement gaps, and ensuring that every child enters school ready to thrive.
To learn more about the Oxford School District, visit oxfordsd.org or call (662) 234-3541.
