Chatham CSD Universal Pre-Kindergarten FAQs

Updated 2/9/24


When is the student registration period?

We are soliciting applications from February 12 - March 31. If these applications exceed our capacity, these students will be entered into a lottery. Any applications after March 31 will be added to the UPK request list on a first-come, first-served basis.

Timeline:

March 31 - due date for initial applications

June - screening (for all applicants); students that would have qualified for our targeted pre-k program through this screening will be guaranteed a spot.

June - if capacity has been exceeded, a lottery will be held

July - parents/guardians will be notified of acceptance/wait-list for pre-k program

Are there any exceptions to the age rule of “4, but not 5, by December 1, 2023”?

No. UPK is a grant-funded program with strict regulations, including regarding the age of eligible children.

What qualifications will the Pre-K teacher and assistant hold?

The Chatham CSD UPK classrooms will be staffed with only certified teachers and teaching assistants. The community-based organization partners will be required to follow the UPK staffing guidelines, listed NYSED’s UPK FAQ: http://www.nysed.gov/early-learning/frequently-asked-questions-faq

How large do you anticipate the class sizes to be? 

We anticipate the class sizes will be no larger than 18 students, with one teacher and one teaching assistant in every pre-kindergarten classroom.

My child has never been in a classroom setting before. Can we have a tour and meet the teachers prior to starting in September?

Mrs. Reno, the elementary school principal, will be setting up meet-and-greet opportunities this summer. This information will be provided to the prospective pre-k students later this spring.

What if I have twins, triplets, etc. that are eligible for UPK?

We will group your children together in the possible lottery process so both/all receive the same acceptance/wait-list standing.

Does my child need to be potty trained?

No, but it is highly recommended. Please work with your child(ren) well in advance of the start of the school year, as toilet training is not a skill that is learned overnight.

Does my child need to reside in the Chatham school district?

Yes. UPK regulations require all students to live within the district boundaries.

What days and times will UPK meet?

The Chatham UPK program will follow the MED daily schedule. The doors will open at 7:40am for children who wish to eat breakfast. At 7:45am, all children will head to class. At 8am, academic learning begins and goes until 2:00pm. In addition, UPK will follow the CCSD calendar for days off, school closings, and vacations.


Is this income-based like Head Start?

No. Universal pre-kindergarten is funded by the District and grants and is offered at no-cost to District residents.

Can my child ride the school bus?

Yes, as long as they are at least 4 years old. If your child is 3 when the school year starts, they will be eligible on their 4th birthday.

Can my child get meals at the school cafeteria?

Yes. All Chatham CSD students can receive free breakfast and lunch through the district’s meal program and eat in the cafeteria. Information about the school lunch program can be found here: https://www.chathamcentralschools.com/page/food-services

What health records and immunizations will my child need?

Health information and forms can be found here: https://www.chathamcentralschools.com/o/medes/page/med-health-office. NYS immunization requirements can be found here: https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2370.pdf

What if I have questions?

Please contact the MED Elementary School Principal, Kristen Reno, with any questions relating to pre-kindergarten programming: renok@chatham.k12.ny.us / 518-392-2255


Please contact Chatham CSD's registrar, Emily Ponce, with any questions relating to pre-kindergarten registration or to schedule a phone/in-person registration meeting: quae@chatham.k12.ny.us / 518-392-1535