If your child turns 4 this year, he or she is eligible for free pre-kindergarten, either in a public school or at a site run by a community organization. The de Blasio administration gets an A for effort in its rapid expansion of pre-kindergarten, with more than 30,000 new seats last fall and another 20,000 planned for this coming fall. But what is the quality of these new programs?
Even though the city is rapidly expanding free all-day pre-k programs, demand still outstrips supply in many neighborhoods. The staff of Insideschools and a panel of experts will tell you how to find a good program for your child and to navigate the application process.
This free workshop for parents will:
-- Explain the difference between "child care" and "pre-kindergarten"
-- Help you decide whether to choose pre-k run by public schools or community groups
-- Tell you what to look for when you visit such programs
-- Detail where the available seats are
-- Explain how and when to apply
-- Talk about what to do if there’s no slot for your child where you want it
-- Describe ethnic and racial diversity in pre-k programs.
Moderated by:
Clara Hemphill, interim director, Center for New York City Affairs at the New School
The Center for New York City Affairs presents an examination of Mayor Bill de Blasio's performance in key areas impacting New York City during his first year in office. Join our de Blasio series discussions this year using #deblasioseries and follow us @centernyc.