Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK)
Universal Pre-K Application Links
Parents may register for the UPK lottery by submitting an online application, or a paper application and submitting by mail.
Click here for the online application
Use the button below to submit a paper application.
Universal Pre-K FAQs
In May 2022, Herricks received additional, targeted New York State funding to expand the Herricks Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Program. The Herricks UPK program, which is entirely funded by a grant from New York State, was able to expand to a full day program. Continuation of the program each year is fully dependent on funding from New York State.
Who is Eligible?
Students who will reach the age of 4 by December 1 of the year of enrollment in the program, and who are residents of Herricks School District, are eligible to apply.
Application Process:
Applications are available, beginning in January, on the district website, at the registrar’s office in the Community Center, and in the main offices of all elementary schools. Families who have registered children of an eligible age in the Herricks census should also receive notification by mail. Census registration can be done at the Registrar’s Office in the Community Center Main Office, Room 2.
Selection Process:
Random selection is required by NYS. The number of seats will be capped based on state funding. Selection for this program is done by a lottery each spring. A waiting list is established in order of their draw from the lottery. Parents are notified by email of the results of the lottery.
The Program:
The Herricks UPK Program is run by Harbor Child Care, located on the main floor of the Community Center. Once the names have been selected from the lottery by a committee consisting of the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, a representative from the Business Office, and a Herricks resident, Harbor Child Care receives the list and begins to schedule students. Notification of schedule and orientation will come directly from Harbor Day. Breakfast, lunch and snack will be provided. Transportation is not provided. Questions concerning the educational philosophy of the program and details of the program itself should be directed to Smita Daniel, Center Director for Harbor Child Care, at 516-248-7048. The program meets all of the instructional requirements of the NYS UPK Grant.
Universal Pre-Kindergarten Application:
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Please note that submitting the application (whether online or by mail) does not guarantee a place in the program.
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You must submit proofs of residency and copy of birth certificate to be eligible for this program.
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Selection is done by lottery.
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Those selected will be notified by email.