• Enhance the effectiveness of each program for the collective benefit of all early learners in our community.
• Create opportunities for preschool providers to share, as well as acquire educational resources.
• Maintain an ongoing dialogue to share concerns and develop solutions.
• Provide knowledge about early intervention resources available in our community to support preschool students with special needs.
Vision Statement
Through the work of the AECSD Early Learning Partnership, community educational programs and services will offer developmentally appropriate, resource-rich, culturally diverse, experiential, and hands-on curricula to support the emotional and cognitive growth of all preschool children in safe, hazard-free environments.
Belief Statement
The AECSD Early Learning Partnership believes in
• Valuing and promoting the importance of early childhood education.
• Encouraging understanding of how young children learn and develop.
• Supporting the creation and implementation of environments and curricula that meet the diverse needs of young children in our multicultural society.
• Reviewing trends, issues, and research in early childhood education and sharing this knowledge.
• Facilitating a smooth transition for children from preschool to kindergarten and beyond.
The Universal Prekindergarten Program is a vital part of the Auburn Enlarged City School District, offering comprehensive educational services to Auburn residents whose children are 3 (3PK) or 4 (UPK) years old on or before December 1st.
UPK fosters collaboration among parents, childcare providers, preschool special education programs, community organizations, and other early childhood programs, working together with the Auburn Enlarged City School District to develop and deliver high-quality educational experiences for 3- and 4-year-olds.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What is Universal Prekindergarten?
Universal PreKindergarten (3PK or UPK) provides an opportunity for all three- and four-year-olds to participate in engaging, high-quality preschool programs. The program brings together parents, childcare providers, and community organizations to work collaboratively with the Auburn Enlarged City School District.
Why enroll your child in a District Universal Prekindergarten Program?
Research indicates that quality prekindergarten experiences support academic success and improve long-term achievement. Early childhood is a critical time for learning and development.
Who is eligible to enroll in the Universal Prekindergarten Program?
Any Auburn resident whose child is three or four years old on or before December 1st of the current school year is eligible to apply.
What is the cost to send my child to a Universal Prekindergarten Program?
The Universal Prekindergarten Program is funded by New York State and is free for eligible children.
Are there selection criteria for the program?
Applications are accepted during a designated period. If more applications are received than available slots, a random selection process will be used. Site placement is determined based on daycare needs, family income, and parental preference. Once selected, placement is not guaranteed at a specific site nor can a child's placement be changed once they are officially enrolled.
Is the Universal Prekindergarten Program mandatory for all three- and four-year-olds?
Universal Prekindergarten is an optional program. While enrollment is not required, regular attendance is expected for those who participate.