Pre-Kindergarten at Pine Bush
The Pine Bush Central School District currently offers a full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program at no cost to families. The program serves 180 students across 10 pre-kindergarten classes: three classes each at Pine Bush Elementary School and E.J. Russell Elementary School, two classes each at Pakanasink Elementary School and Circleville Elementary School. Pre kindergarten students follow the same schedule as their respective elementary schools.
The pre-kindergarten program engages children in activities that promote intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth through the use of books, puzzles, art materials, dramatic play, and math and science manipulatives. New York State-certified teachers and teaching assistants provide thoughtfully planned instruction with ample opportunities for children to build friendships, develop consideration for others, explore new experiences, and gain the skills needed to be prepared for kindergarten by the end of the school year.
Eligibility and Application Process
The Pine Bush Central School District is continuing to accept applications for the full-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program for the 2026-2027 school year. Program availability is contingent upon continuation of state funding.
To be eligible for the program, children must reside within the Pine Bush Central School District and must be four years old by Dec. 1, 2026. Please click here for the English application or click here for the Spanish application for the 2026-2027 school year.
The deadline to submit your application for consideration in the random selection process for the 2026-2027 school year was March 1, 2026. Families are still welcome to submit an application after this date. Applications received after March 1 will be placed on the UPK waitlist and will be considered if an opening becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please review our Frequently Asked Questions, available in English or Spanish, for more information regarding the UPK program in our Pine Bush elementary schools.
If you have any additional questions, please call Peggy Fontana at 845-744-2031 ext. 4808.