Universal Pre-K Program 2023-2024

  • Pre-K Students walking through a hallUniversal Pre-K (UPK) is a free pre-kindergarten program available at local preschools with qualified teachers. Program space is limited and students are selected via a lottery system.

    The program is designed to help children begin their education at an early age and get a solid start on the road to active learning.

        • Participating children must turn 4 years old on or before December 1, 2023 (born between December 2, 2018 and December 1, 2019) 
        • Program dates will follow CCSD's school year calendar
        • Tuition-free, full day (5 hours), curriculum-based program (pending NYS budget approval)
        • Program is provided at local UPK sites 
        • Transportation will not be provided

Applications

  • The application window for the 2023-2024 Universal Pre-K lottery is now closed. The placement lottery took place on March 1 and all currently available seats have been filled. All new applications will be put on our waitlist and may be placed in UPK in the event that a space opens.
    Pre-K Students working

    • To apply for UPK waitlist online, complete the application and return the required documentation.
      Online Application: English | Spanish 

    Required applications and documentation can be submitted via the following methods:

    • Email to ccsdupk@ccsd.edu
    • Mail to: CCSD, Attn: UPK, 62 Old Middletown Road, New City, New York 10956
    • Place in drop box at the front entrance of the Chestnut Grove Administration Building, 62 Old Middletown Road, New City, New York 10956

    If you need to speak with someone about your application, please contact UPK registration at 845-639-5607 or send an email to: ccsdupk@ccsd.edu.

     

March 1, 2023 Lottery

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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  • What are the qualifications needed for applying for entrance into the program?

  • How do I know if my application has been received and completed?

  • Can I enroll my child in UPK for the 2023-24 school year?

  • When does UPK begin?

  • When will the selection lottery take place?

  • If I do not receive a placement will my application be kept on a waiting list?

  • Is there a fee/tuition cost for CCSD residents?

  • What preschools will be offering UPK?

  • Can I choose the preschool my child will attend?

  • What if I need my child to stay at the provider for more than 5 hours per day?

  • Will the program take place at CCSD schools with CCSD staff?

  • Will spaces be available for half day as well as full day placements?

Statement for Method of Selection of Children

  • A Pre-K student fist bumping a teacherThe Clarkstown Central School District will review the original completed applications to verify eligibility.

    As program spaces are limited, a lottery will be used to determine student placement in the program. Children considered for the lottery must have a complete application on file by February 17, 2023 with proof of age eligibility and residency within the Clarkstown Central School District. To view details on age and residency requirements, click here. 

    Applications must be received by February 17, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. to secure a space in the lottery.  Applications received after that time will be in a waiting pool. Parents/Guardians will be notified of their child’s placement status with complete information on how to register as you will be required to complete the full registration process with the Clarkstown Central School District. Registration will take place in person during the month of March. 

    For further information or assistance with this application, please call the Clarkstown Central School District UPK Information Line at (845) 639-5607 or email ccsdupk@ccsd.edu. 

    If an application is received and/ or postmarked after February 17, 2023, the application will be placed into a waiting pool unless slots are available.