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Pre-K Frequently Asked Questions
How is this being funded?
The program is being funded through an allocation from the New York State Education Department to the Yorktown Central School District specifically for offering a Pre-K program to 4-year-old children. If the program is not offered, the money would remain with the State.
Will this cause our taxes to increase?
No, we do not anticipate any impact to the tax rate as a result of our offering this Pre-K program
Would this program be run by the Yorktown Central School District?
District staff would oversee the implementation of the program and design the curriculum. However, the District would partner with one or more third-party providers to host the program off-site.
Who is the provider?
YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester
Where would this be located?
French Hill School on Baldwin Road, in Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
What age group is this for?
The program would be open to children turning 4 years old by December 1, 2023. Children who turn 4 years old after December 1, 2023 are not eligible to participate in the 2023-24 school year.
Is enrollment open to students who are delaying the start of kindergarten?
The program would be open to children turning 4 years old by December 1, 2023. Children who turn 4 years old after December 1, 2023 are not eligible to participate in the 2023-24 school year.
How many spots are available?
Up to 188.
Is my child guaranteed a spot?
No. Depending on demand, a lottery system might be necessary.
How many classes will there be?
We anticipate there being nine classes. However, we will continue to monitor enrollment before a final determination is made.
What is the class size?
Class size will generally be 21 students with three adults in the room (one teacher and two assistants). Class sizes may also have up to 16 students with two adults in the classroom.
Would this be 5 days a week and follow the YCSD schedule?
Yes; however, the hours of the program would be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What if I need to extend the hours?
Before and after care would be available through the provider at an additional cost as determined by the provider.
Would we be able to keep our current before/after care if selected?
Transportation is not provided in the Pre-K program. Therefore, the parent/guardian is responsible for transporting their child to and from the Pre-K program.
Where will the YMCA before care and after care programs be located?
French Hill
Who may attend the before and after care program?
Only students enrolled in the YCSD Pre-K program may participate in the before and/or after care programs. Please note, there is a fee for the before and after care programs. There is no fee for the Pre-K program from 9am -2pm.
Would needing additional time affect our chances in the lottery?
No.
Can we do less hours than are being offered?
No. Any student in the program must attend from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Will transportation be provided?
No.
Will lunch be provided?
No.
Would current faculty members, certified in Early Childhood Education, be developing the curriculum?
Yes.
Would any IEP services take place at school?
Related Services would be provided as per CPSE recommendations.
Would you have a bilingual Spanish/English program?
No.
What is the curriculum? Worksheets or play based?
Worksheets will most certainly be used as technology will have a very limited role. Play will be incorporated into the day. Time outdoors will be provided, weather permitting. However, the specific amount of time outdoors has not been determined at this time.
Do Children need to be potty trained?
In general, yes. You may speak to the provider of the program about your child’s unique circumstances.
Will this be offered beyond 2024?
We hope to offer the program each year. However, there is no guarantee that the Yorktown Central School District will receive the same level of funding in subsequent years.
Why is the Yorktown Central School District not offering this program in-house?
Providing the program in-house would far exceed the allocation being offered by the State Education Department. Additionally, the District’s school facilities do not have the space to accommodate an additional grade level.
What is the timeline for making a decision?
We anticipate having finalized the process by May 22, 2023.
Can you provide a sample schedule for a typical school day?
UPK
2023-2024 Class schedules
8:45-9:00am: Arrival at school
9:00-9:30am: Morning meeting
9:30-9:45am: Morning snack /Bathroom
9:45: -10:25am: PKOMY* experience #1
10:25-10:45am: Center/small group work
10:45-11:10am: PKOMY* experience #2
11:10-11:30am: Center/small group work
11:30-12:00pm: Gross motor/outside play
12:00-12:45pm: Lunch in classroom
12:45-1:15pm: Rest/Meditation/Independent Learning
1:15-1:35pm: PKOMY* experience #3
1:35 -1:55pm: Centers/small group work
1:55-2:00pm: Dismissal and transition to extended care
*Pre-K On MY Way
Where can I go for additional information?
You may visit the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester website at: https://ymca-cnw.org/universal-pre-kindergarten-program-upk/
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