Enrollment at SEEC

The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) operates on a traditional school year calendar beginning each September and continuing through August. To support a rich experience and strong classroom community, children remain with their class for the full school year and transition to new age groups together each fall. Enrollment for the upcoming school year is determined every spring through an annually generated applicant pool and waitlist system. Though the annual enrollment cycle begins each April, rolling enrollment occurs as we have openings throughout the year. Applications are welcome at any time

Applications are classified first by the child’s date of birth and second by parent employment status. Priority will be given to Smithsonian staff members and siblings of current students. To be included at the opening of the enrollment cycle for the upcoming school year, you must submit an application before April 1^st.  

Application and Selection Process 

Enrollment offers will be extended via email in early April and on a rolling basis until spaces are full. Applications received after April 1st will be added to a waitlist if all spaces have already been filled. A non-refundable registration fee of $100 and student deposit of $500 will be due at the time of acceptance to guarantee a child’s enrollment. 

• Infant Eligibility: To be eligible for infant enrollment at SEEC, your baby must have a due date of August 31^st and must be born by September 15^th of the enrollment year. Priority will be given to Smithsonian staff members and siblings of current students. 
• Classroom Openings and Rolling Enrollment: While infant spaces are in high demand, we may have vacancies in our older age groups at any point in the school year. If a space is open, a child will be selected from the remaining applicant pool. If spaces are still available after the waitlist is exhausted, late applications will be evaluated as they are received. If you wish to start at SEEC immediately or mid-year, please apply and follow up with an email to SEEC-Enrollment@si.edu and indicate your preferred timeline.