Massachusetts offers a variety of free and low-cost public education programs for children and adults. Free public education is available to all kindergarten and school-age children in Massachusetts, including special education programs for children with disabilities. Massachusetts also offers free adult basic education and ESOL / ESL English classes to adult learners.

Early Childhood and Preschool Programs

Massachusetts early childhood and preschool programs offer free or low-cost services to eligible low-income families with children. Families can choose the type of early childhood program they want, including day care centers, family child care, in-home child care, preschool and early intervention. Most Massachusetts early childhood and preschool programs also offer family support services and referrals.

Public Kindergarten Programs

Kindergarten is a public school program to help young children get ready for 1st grade. Most children start kindergarten when they are five years old. Kindergarten attendance is not mandatory in Massachusetts, but all public school districts are required by law to offer a free kindergarten program for their residents.

Elementary and Secondary Education

All children in Massachusetts, including homeless children and undocumented children, have the right to free public education. Massachusetts offers several types of public education programs for children in elementary school, middle school, and high school.

Special Education Programs

Special education programs are educational classes, instructions, and social services designed to meet the needs of children with disabilities. Special education programs are offered by public school districts to children and youth, 3 to 21 years of age, at no cost to parents.

Adult Basic Education / ESOL

Adult Basic Education (ABE) is free instruction for adult learners who want to improve their education or English language skills. ABE programs offer basic reading, writing, math, and problem-solving classes; English language lessons (ESOL / ESL); GED preparation; and other basic educational services for adult learners.