Welcome to the REACH Community and Youth Agency Pre-Kindergarten Program

The REACH CYA Universal Pre-kindergarten (UPK) program has been a proud collaborative partner of the Half Hollow Hills Central School District since 1999. We are unique in that we are fully integrated within each of the district’s five elementary school buildings allowing for a smooth transition into Kindergarten. This also enables us to closely work together with district administration and support staff to coordinate and implement a high-quality program in preparation for Half Hollow Hills Kindergarten.

At the REACH CYA UPK program we recognize that the early childhood years are crucial for children as they lay the foundation for future learning by developing essential skills in language, cognitive abilities, social interaction, emotional regulation, and physical development, which are all vital for success in school and life in general. These skills include communicating effectively, following instructions, interacting with peers, managing emotions, and developing fine and gross motor skills through meaningful learning experiences.

To instill these critical skills, we utilize the Creative Curriculum which is an educational approach that aligns with the standards set forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the NYS Early Learning Standards which emphasizes experiential and hands-on learning activities to engage students. Through active exploration, discovery, enrichment, and inquiry instruction through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math), our highly qualified NYS certified teachers and classroom assistants guide students to take a functional role in their education to meet each of their individual needs and foster a love of learning!

REACH CYA Pre-K builds strong, safe, classroom communities where children are engaged, supported and challenged while they develop a love of learning at school.

REQUIREMENTS

• Children must turn 4 years old by Dec. 31, 2026 and not be Kindergarten eligible.
• Classes are 5 hours per day, five days per week and follow the school district calendar.
• Current hours are 9:30am to 2:30pm and are subject to change.
• Classes are located in each elementary school. Placement in your child’s home school is not guaranteed.
• Maximum enrollment of 18 children in each session with a NYS Certified Teacher, and one Classroom Assistant.
• Classes will follow school district health and safety guidelines.
• Students must be able to tend to bathroom needs independently.
• TRANSPORTATION IS NOT PROVIDED

REGISTRATION PROCESS

• Universal Pre-K is funded by a grant provided to the District by NYS.
• Applications become available in January.
• Following the passage of the NYS Budget in mid-Spring, a lottery system will be utilized if the number of applicants exceeds available placements.
• HHH will inform families of the results of the lottery drawing.

REACH CYA ENROLLMENT

• Families must complete REACH CYA enrollment forms after HHH Student Registration is finalized.

PROGRAM INCLUDES

• Daily Snack (All Classrooms are Peanut/Nut-Free) Lunch information will be provided as it becomes available.
• Classroom materials and start-up student supplies.

CLICK HERE ⇒ PARENT HANDBOOK

CLICK HERE ⇒ CLASSROOM LEARNING EXPERIENCES