Universal Pre-K Program
The Comsewogue School District Universal Pre-K (UPK) program operates via a state-grant-funded lottery system partnered with SCOPE Education Services and Alternatives for Children. Because seats are limited, admission is completely randomized. The program runs 5 days per week with half-day and full-day options available. There are a limited number of seats available and selections are made via a lottery system. There is no cost to the families of students who are selected by the lottery. The district's formal lottery timeline and placement procedures include the steps below. If you have any questions regarding the program or the application, please contact the Staff & Student Services department at 631-474-8110.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Children must turn 4 years old on or before December 1st of the upcoming school year.
- Residency: Only verifiable residents of the Comsewogue School District are eligible for the free, grant-funded lottery.
- Cost: If selected, the program is completely free to families.
Application Submission
- Digital Application: Families must submit a digital UPK application online (found below) and upload a completed, printed UPK registration packet with supporting documents.
- Required Documentation: You must provide two proofs of district residency (e.g., tax bills, deeds, leases, utility bills), proof of the child's age (birth certificate or passport), immunization records, and a recent physical exam.
- Deadline: Applications and paperwork are typically due by the district's strict early March deadline.
Lottery and Placement Procedures
- Random Selection: The drawing is held virtually in March.
- Lottery Numbers: Every registered student is assigned a lottery number, which determines the order of selection and placement.
- Program Options: The program runs 5 days a week with half-day and full-day options. Main local program sites historically include Norwood Avenue Elementary School, Clinton Avenue Elementary School, and Boyle Road Elementary School.
- Confirmation: Once the Comsewogue School District runs the lottery and assigns numbers, the district contacts the selected families directly to officially confirm their placement.
Waitlist Policy
- If a child's name is not drawn before the limited seats are filled, their number is held sequentially on a waiting list. If an accepted family turns down a seat or moves out of the district before or during the school year, the seat is offered to the next family on the waitlist.