Universal Pre-Kindergarten

     The OCSD UPK program is offered free of charge to eligible children in the district. Half-day sessions are available at all five elementary schools.  This program is solely offered through the funding of a New York State Grant to the school district.  The program follows the school district calendar. 

     The First Step Universal Pre-Kindergarten Agency (Fulton, N.Y.) is contracted by the school district to provide this preschool program for our four year olds. This agency operates other UPK sites in the county. The mission statement of First Step is:

     First Step Universal Pre-K program strives to create a caring community of learners in which adults support children by providing opportunities for social, cognitive, linguistic, emotional, and physical development. All program environments shall embrace cultural diversity. Our commitment is to foster experiences that will positively impact all lifelong learning.


     Each class has a maximum of 18 students taught by a certified teacher and a teaching assistant.  The UPK program follows the New York State standards for universal Pre-Kindergarten, as well as literacy and mathematics programs adopted by the district. Parent involvement is encouraged and welcome. More information about the program can be found via Office of Curriculum and Instruction. 

If you need to register for Pre-K please visit the Central Registration Page.