Niskayuna expands UPK Program for 2026-27 to provide more opportunities for young learners

Black and white circle logo. A graduation cap and three people are shown in the middle. Text around the border reads curriculum and programs, Niskayuna strategic plan.The Niskayuna Central School District will expand its Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) program for the 2026-27 school year, for the second year in a row, to create more opportunities for children to access high quality early learning. Since the 2024-25 school year, the number of seats for UPK students has increased 371 percent, from 14 seats to 66 seats.

Through an expanded partnership with TSL Adventures, the district will add 26 classroom seats next year—broadening its reach and supporting the district’s commitment to early childhood education as outlined in the 2024–27 Strategic Plan.

At its May 12 meeting, the board of education approved UPK contracts with both TSL Adventures and the Schenectady Jewish Community Center (JCC). TSL will now operate a total of 52 seats in two locations, including Troy-Schenectady Road and Horstman Drive. The JCC will continue offering a classroom for 14 students.

Register your child for the UPK lottery and read more about the program.

The expansion of the UPK program in Niskayuna reflects the district’s strategic priorities, by providing meaningful and engaging learning opportunities for Niskayuna’s youngest learners, ensuring they begin their academic journey with a strong foundation; advances our our environment and culture by helping reduce barriers for families to access high-quality early learning programs; and promotes community partnership by fostering collaboration with families and local organizations, reinforcing the shared commitment to supporting student success.

To learn more about the district’s long-term goals, visit the Niskayuna Central School District Strategic Plan.