Important Updates on UPK Programs for 2026–2027

The Kingston City School District (KCSD) is sharing an important update regarding its Universal Pre-K (UPK) programs for the 2026–2027 school year.

In alignment with Governor Kathy Hochul’s early childhood education proposal, which includes expanding access to UPK and making funding available to all school districts, KCSD will expand its 4-year-old UPK program and will serve only 4-year-old students for the upcoming school year. This expansion includes reallocating seats at Kingston Catholic and the Center for Creative Education to serve additional 4-year-old students.

New York State is working to broaden access to early childhood education. According to the Governor’s Office, the proposal includes additional support to make Pre-K available to all 4-year-olds across New York State by the 2028–2029 school year.

As part of this shift, the lottery previously scheduled for the 3-year-old UPK program on April 21 will no longer take place.

We recognize that this change may be disappointing for families who were planning for the 3-year-old program and apologize for any disruption it may cause.

The district will contact all families who applied for the 3-year-old UPK program to provide additional information and resources. Families are also encouraged to reapply for the 4-year-old UPK program in the following year.

For questions or assistance, families may contact the KCSD Registration Department at 845-943-3093.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership of our students, schools and community.