You Can Petition City Hall, NYC DOE And Win, Roosevelt Island Parents Obtain 15 Additional Early Childhood 3K Seats For Roosevelt Island Day Nursery - What's Next?

Last January, a group of Roosevelt Island parents began organizing and lobbying to increase the number of early childhood 3 K seats allocated to Roosevelt Island. Roosevelt Island parents Sunny & Tanya Singh explained the importance of increasing the number of Pre K seats located on Roosevelt Island. According to the Singh's:

We moved to Roosevelt Island in 2022 in hopes to settle in this beautiful lush green neighborhood and raise our future child here. While researching the best places in New York City to start a family, we strongly leaned towards Roosevelt Island with the abundance of child friendly spaces, activities, playgrounds, a large school, and daycare centers that we saw during our walks.

Unbeknownst to us, 3k facilities on the island could not accommodate more than 30 children in total. There are at least one hundred local little Roosevelt Islanders that need access to the 3k program. Yet, we are being forced to commute with the most vulnerable little toddlers miles away to find appropriate schooling options elsewhere. I wish we had known about the 3k seats shortage prior to settling on the island and becoming permanent residents here.

Most of the children in each age group know each other and it would be great to let our children play together and stay in the safe environment in their own neighborhood instead of dragging them to separate inaccessible 3k facilities off of the island....

Image Of Roosevelt Island 3K Parents And Students Leaving RIDN

Last February 5, I sent the following inquiry to the NYC Department of Education (DOE): 

According to Roosevelt Island parents and the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN), there are dozens, if not more, of Roosevelt Island parents seeking 3 K program seats for their children located on Roosevelt Island and have been put on a waiting list.  I'm told approximately 100 children are on waiting list to attend a 3K program on Roosevelt Island. 

RIDN has been allocated one 3K class of 15 students and three classes for Pre K of 16 seats each. RIDN has requested that one of the Pre K seats be switched to a 3K seat so that there are 2 classes each of 3K and Pre K. Also, I understand that PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island is also allocated three Pre K classes and one 3K...

... Is it possible to switch one of the RIDN Pre K classes to 3 K in order to accomodate more Roosevelt Island children in the 3K program?...

A DOE spokesperson replied:

... Seat allocations for 3-K and Pre-K programs are determined based on multiple factors, including utilization trends, demand, and funding. We continue to assess capacity needs and look forward to exploring opportunities to engage with the community on updated needs....

I asked the DOE today:

I’m following up on the request by Roosevelt Island parents for an additional 3K class.

I’m told that the DOE has agreed to an additional 3 k class being allocated to the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery for the upcoming year.

Is that true?

Any statement from DOE on the matter?

DOE Associate Press Secretary Dominique Ellison answered:

We can confirm the additional 3K class allocation to the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery for the upcoming school year (SY25-26). This cost-neutral swap will adjust the current seat allocation from 15 3K seats and 48 pre-K seats to a balanced offering of 30 3K and 30 pre-K seats. Our primary concern is continuing high-quality education services, and this seat swap provides a consistent and uninterrupted learning environment for Roosevelt Island families.

Roosevelt Island parents described their efforts to bring more 3K and Pre K seats to Roosevelt Island during the March 3 Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island Committee meeting.

Great job by these parents demonstrating that people can organize, petition and improve our Roosevelt Island community.

What's next?

UPDATE 9:40 PM - Maybe not a win for everybody. Another Roosevelt Island parent raises this concern:

As a parent of a 2 year old, this is great news but unfortunately the island has lost an entire PreK class. So this is still a bit worrisome for families on the island who may now need to go off island for PreK and a new building opening - it’s too bad that the 3K could not have just been additional and not a swap.

NYC Schools 3k & Pre K Admissions Application Deadline Friday February 28 - Roosevelt Island Parents Say 100 Children On 3K Waiting List, Asking For More Seats Located On Roosevelt Island

According to the NYC Public Schools website:

In New York City, you can apply to 3-K in the calendar year that your child turns three. 3-K brings free, full-day, high-quality education to three-year-old children in New York City— learn more about the benefits of 3-K here. Every school district has 3-K programs, and we make every effort to place students based on seat availability close to their home.

Friday, February 28, 2025: 3-K Application Closes...

 

3-K & Pre-K applications for the 2025-2026 school year are due SOON!

Finalize your choices and apply by February 28, 2025 at: https://t.co/0QkSKz1REo

Get more information at: https://t.co/PyInEGsvsu and https://t.co/uca7K4CQyZ pic.twitter.com/8yBpKpZ4FZ

— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) February 24, 2025

A group of Roosevelt Island parents have recently begun organizing to increase the number of 3K seats available on Roosevelt Island. I asked the NYC Department of Education (DOE):

According to Roosevelt Island parents and the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN), there are dozens, if not more, of Roosevelt Island parents seeking 3 K program seats for their children located on Roosevelt Island and have been put on a waiting list. I'm told approximately 100 children are on waiting list to attend a 3K program on Roosevelt Island.

RIDN has been allocated one 3K class of 15 students and three classes for Pre K of 16 seats each. RIDN has requested that one of the Pre K seats be switched to a 3K seat so that there are 2 classes each of 3K and Pre K.

Also, I understand that PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island is also allocated three Pre K classes and one 3K

How does NYC DOE determine the 3k and Pre K seat allocation for Roosevelt Island?

Why are there 3 classes for Pre K and 1 for 3K at both Roosevelt Island sites?

Is it possible to switch one of the RIDN Pre K classes to 3 K in order to accomodate more Roosevelt Island children in the 3K program?

I'm told that the NYC DOE reimbursement rate for 3k and Pre K is far below the cost for each child. How does NYC DOE determine the reimbursement rate for Pre K and 3K?

Do you have any comment on adding an additional Roosevelt Island 3K class and the NYC DOE reimbursement rate for the program?

A spokesperson for the NYC DOE replied:

New York City Public Schools is committed to providing high-quality early childhood education to families citywide, including on Roosevelt Island. Seat allocations for 3-K and Pre-K programs are determined based on multiple factors, including utilization trends, demand, and funding. We continue to assess capacity needs and look forward to exploring opportunities to engage with the community on updated needs.

The spokesperson added:

... seat configuration is based on community need and existing seat placements, and we are currently reviewing plans to update seating in future school years. Our cost per child rates are developed based on various factors, including facility costs, staff salaries, materials, and other essential expenses of the provider. New York City Public Schools recognizes the significant resources required to operate an early childhood program and reimburse sites at a rate higher than the funds received from state and federal partners.

I also asked Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Julie Menin for any comment on:

... adding an additional Roosevelt Island 3K class and the NYC DOE reimbursement rate for the program?

Ms Menin replied:

This administration has not prioritized early childhood education as clearly evidenced by the Mayor's Preliminary Budget which failed to include $300M to appropriately fund the early childhood education programs that families rely on. I will continue to work with my Council colleagues, on behalf of children and parents throughout our city, to increase funding for 3K, UPK, Promise NYC, and special education early childhood programs - all of which are vital to the development and education of Roosevelt Islanders.

Roosevelt Island parents Sunny & Tanya Singh explain the importance of increasing the number of Pre K seats located on Roosevelt Island. According to the Singh's:

We moved to Roosevelt Island in 2022 in hopes to settle in this beautiful lush green neighborhood and raise our future child here. While researching the best places in New York City to start a family, we strongly leaned towards Roosevelt Island with the abundance of child friendly spaces, activities, playgrounds, a large school, and daycare centers that we saw during our walks. 

Unbeknownst to us, 3k facilities on the island could not accommodate more than 30 children in total. There are at least one hundred local little Roosevelt Islanders that need access to the 3k program. Yet, we are being forced to commute with the most vulnerable little toddlers miles away to find appropriate schooling options elsewhere. I wish we had known about the 3k seats shortage prior to settling on the island and becoming permanent residents here. 

Most of the children in each age group know each other and it would be great to let our children play together and stay in the safe environment in their own neighborhood instead of dragging them to separate inaccessible 3k facilities off of the island. 

Image Of 3K Parents & Children Leaving RIDN 3K Program

The organizers of a petition seeking an additional 15 seat 3K class for Roosevelt Island this upcoming school year and a long term goal of more 3K and Pre K seats for Roosevelt Island report:

WHAT WE WANT:

Add another 3K class of 15 students to the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery campus

Reevaluate the placement process to prioritize accessibility and convenience for families, taking into account proximity to home.

Long-term goal: Expand our efforts to add more UPK/pre-K spots.

WHY:

The families of Roosevelt Island want more opportunities for their children to attend school on the island to foster community and create accessible learning environments to ease the burden on working families.

Demand for 3K seats on Roosevelt Island far exceeds the supply at a higher rate than in other districts, forcing Roosevelt Island families to commute outside the district for 3K at a higher rate than in other districts.

Given the dynamic state of NYC’s transit and infrastructure development, Roosevelt Island residents are routinely subjected to last-minute transit issues that impede their ability to commute off the island.

WHAT THE DATA SHOWS:

In 2024, 66% of zip codes have better (higher) offer rates than ours in terms of applicants versus offers.

In 2024, 90% of districts had better (higher) offer rates than ours.

The March 3, 2025 Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island Committee 

will have an update by a Roosevelt Island parent with the latest info on 3K issue.

You're Invited To The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Fiesta Fundraiser Gala Saturday May 4 - Featuring Sit Down Mexican Feast, Open Bar, Live Mariachi Performance And Silent & Live Auction

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery is hosting it's annual Gala And Auction this Saturday, May 4. You're invited to the Fiesta de RIDN!



According to the RIDN:

You are invited to Roosevelt Island Day Nursery's annual gala and auction: Fiesta de RIDN!!!

The Gala is a wonderful party, and RIDN’s main fundraiser for the year. Our school has operated as a not-for-profit infant/toddler center and nursery school on Roosevelt Island for over 40 years. Serving families on two campuses, the school nurtures children from 3 months to 5 years of age, and includes three Universal Pre-K classes.

RIDN's annual gala is always a fabulous evening out on Roosevelt Island for parents, teachers, adult alumni and the Roosevelt Island community at large.

This year's Fiesta will be held this coming Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Manhattan Park Theater Club. A dedicated group of parent volunteers has been working tirelessly to put together a fantastic event featuring a sit-down Mexican feast, an open bar, a live Mariachi performance and a silent and live auction.

Tickets start at $75 per person and include our sit down dinner, open bar and live music! Sponsor packages - including the ability to sponsor teacher tickets - are also still available.

Please see the below link to buy tickets, donate (every dollar counts!) or sponsor.

This link will also allow you to buy tickets in advance (they will also be available at the door night of) and to bid on our auction items once they go live (Wednesday). https://ridn.ejoinme.org/gala2019

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery's annual spring gala and auction is coming up this Saturday May 4th. Join parents, alumni & the broader @rooseveltisland community for a fun night out supporting an Island institution https://t.co/lr4oZlVqmp #ridn #rooseveltisland #fiestaderidn

— Minnehanonck (@minnehanonck) April 30, 2019

Click here for more info on RIDN and for the Fiesta de RIDN Gala.

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Spring Gala Fundraiser Saturday April 1, Food, Music, Dancing, Live Auction & Raffle Draw - Knicks Tickets, Weekend Home Retreats, Friars Club Roast, Farm Fresh Food Delivery & More

According to the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery:

Please join friends of Roosevelt Island Day Nursery at their Spring Gala Fundraiser, Saturday, April 1st, 7-10 pm, at the Manhattan Theatre Club, 8 River Road.

Click here to Buy Tickets! Food/drink, dancing, entertainment, and live and silent auctions for amazing items like Knicks tickets, farm fresh food delivery, weekend home retreats, a Friars Club Roast, piano lessons, original art, and more!

Raffle draws will include week of FREE RIDN summer camp and Manhattan Park pool membership! See more details at www.biddingforgood.com/ridngala to buy Gala tickets and bid on silent auction items.

SPONSORED POST - Roosevelt Island Day Nursery NYC Universal Pre Kindergarten Application Deadline March 3

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) reports:

RIDN NYC Universal Pre Kindergarten (UPK) Application deadline March 3.

Still haven’t applied to #preKforAll? You now have until Friday, March 3 to complete your application: https://t.co/uca7K4CQyZ pic.twitter.com/6pxLgLlb9s

— NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) February 27, 2017

RIDN Offers FREE inspired and exciting progressive approaches to learning for young children in all areas of development – from early literacy and math to the arts.

Supportive and nurturing teaching by teams of experienced educators in our small non-profit setting.

Weekly schedules include project-based learning, outside time, music enrichment classes, free healthy snacks and lunches, and much more!

Last day to apply for FREE full day UPK classes has been extended to Friday, March 3! All children with 2013 birthdays are eligible to apply.

Apply online here.

Visit RIDN to learn more about our programs.

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Jobs Available - Seeking Substitute Teachers To Work With Children 3 Months To 5 1/2 Years Old

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) reports:

Image From RIDN

Substitute Teachers Needed @ RIDN

Substitute teachers are needed to work with children from age three months to 5 1/2 years. Experience working in an early childhood setting is required, and a background/interest in progressive education preferred. Priority given to candidates who are available 4-6pm, M-F, or 8-10 am, M-F. Competitive hourly rate. Send resume/cover letter to assistantdirector@ridn.org.

As reported last May, the RIDN will have at least 50 free NYC Universal Pre-Kindergarten seats available starting September 2016.

More information about RIDN available at their web site.

Roosevelt Island Gets 50 Additional NYC Free Universal Pre Kindergarten Seats For September 2016 - A Fantastic Improvement Says Roosevelt Island Parents' Network Coordinator To RIRA Common Council Public Session

Image From NYC Department Of Education

Reported Monday May 2, that the NYC Department of Education approved the addition of at least 50 more free Universal Pre-Kindergarten Seats for Roosevelt Island with full day classes starting in September 2016 at the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN). According to Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Ben Kallos:

... Universal Pre-Kindergarten means having a seat for every four year old in their neighborhood where children can get an education and parents get the help they need in order to afford to live, work and raise a family in the city. Thank you to Eva Bosbach of the Roosevelt Island Parents’ Network as well as Ariel Chesler and Jack Moran of P.S. 183 for working with me, parents, children, providers, and the Department of Education to bring Universal Pre-Kindergarten to the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island....

Roosevelt Island Parents' Network Coordinator Eva Bosbach added:

Roosevelt Island could not be more thankful for at least 50 additional universal Pre-K seats for our families! For more than a year members of the Roosevelt Island Parents' Network including Nisha Nihan, Danielle Goldblatt, Josie Chamla, Susy del Campo Perea and Heart Sugiyama teamed up in an effort to get more local UPK seats for our children. We collected lists of names, called and e-mailed our elected officials and requested more seats from the DOE. The mission of the Roosevelt Island Parents' Network is to serve its over 500 member families, keeping them connected through a discussion forum and various activities, and to advocate for their needs. We thank Council Member Ben Kallos and his team for working with us and bringing more local UPK seats to RI! Having a sufficient number of UPK seats on Roosevelt Island strengthens our commitment to the international, diverse, mixed income island neighborhood, a community that is welcoming to all.

Ms Bosbach announced the additional RIDN free Universal Pre - Kindergarten seats and thanked all those who contributed to making it a reality during the May 4 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Session.



More info at this previous post. To arrange a tour of free RIDN Universal Pre Kindergarten program, contact here.

Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 has a 36 seat free Universal Pre-Kindergarten program that began in 2015.

More NYC Universal Pre Kindergarten Seats Coming To Roosevelt Island For September 2016 Class Says Council Member Ben Kallos - Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Offering At Least 50 New Pre K Seats, Sign Up Now To Take School Tour And Learn More

Image From NYC Department Of Education Pre-K

Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Ben Kallos announced today that the NYC Department Of Education has added 90 new Universal Pre Kindergarten seats for Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side.

Release: 90 New Pre-K Seats Announced for Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island by Council Member Kallos and ... - https://t.co/HTWc6yYqKp

— Ben Kallos (@BenKallos) May 2, 2016

Approximately 50-51 of those new Universal Pre Kindergarten seats will be at the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN).

 mage From Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

RIDN Executive Director Pamela Stark reports:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery, Inc. (RIDN) is thrilled to be able to further meet the needs of the community by offering new full day UPK classes starting September 2016. We thank Council Member Kallos's office and the Department of Education for their support during the approval process.

Dear Families:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) will be a full day UPK provider next year. Children with a 2012 date of birth would be eligible to attend school at RIDN 8:40 am-3 pm Monday-Friday for free during the 2016-2017 school year!

The next round of UPK choice is open to families from Monday May 2 through Friday May 20. We expect that as of Monday May 2 the Roosevelt Island UPK offerings in the Department of Educations online registration system will include both RIDN and PS 217.

Please note All current RIDN families with age eligible children who choose RIDN as their first choice UPK program in the DOE’s online registration system will be given priority enrollment to RIDN’s Pre-K Program.

For those of you who have a child with a 2012 birth date and have not yet visited RIDN, to learn more about our school we are pleased to offer three morning tours in May:

Friday May 6, 8:30- 9:30 am
Wednesday May 11, 8:30-9:30 am
Tuesday May 17, 8:30-9:30 am.

Please RSVP for a Q + A tour by emailing office@ridn.org

Due to space limitations, tours will be limited to ten adults, and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The NYC Department of Education has more information on the Universal Pre Kindergarten Program.



Below is Press Release announcing the new Roosevelt Island and Upper East Side Universal Pre Kindergarten seats from NYC Council Member Ben Kallos:

Ninety more 4-year-olds will have free pre-kindergarten seats on the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island thanks to the efforts of Council Member Ben Kallos who organized parents and children to identify new providers to which parents pledged to send children.

Of the 90 new seats, 54 will be at the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery and 36 seats will be at the Manhattan Schoolhouse in the Upper East Side. This is an increase over the 425 seats previously offered on the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island for the school year starting in September of 2016 to 515.

Parents can apply for Round 2 of Universal Pre-Kindergarten starting on May 2, 2016, including families who already applied, accepted an offer, or have not yet applied.

“Universal Pre-Kindergarten means having a seat for every four year old in their neighborhood where children can get an education and parents get the help they need in order to afford to live, work and raise a family in the city,” said Council Member Ben Kallos. “Thank you to Eva Bosbach of the Roosevelt Island Parents’ Network as well as Ariel Chesler and Jack Moran of P.S. 183 for working with me, parents, children, providers, and the Department of Education to bring Universal Pre-Kindergarten to the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island.”

Following reporting by WNYC in 2014 that Yorkville, Lenox Hill and Roosevelt Island had 2,118 four-year-olds and only 123 Pre-Kindergarten seats Council Member Ben Kallos has worked to bring new seats to the district. This included identifying parents with four year olds who pledged to send their children to Universal Pre-Kindergarten, working with schools and providers to become UPK locations, and working with the Department of Education through the application process to open more seats in the 5th Council District on the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island.

Since taking office Council Member Kallos and organizers in the community have successfully doubled the number of seats at P.S./I.S. 217 on Roosevelt Island. As of 2016 the number of seats in the Upper East Side and on Roosevelt Island has more than quadrupled from 123, a was originally reported by WNYC in 2014, to more than 425 as of the March deadline and as of today 515.

“Pre-K for All is about serving the children and families of New York, and we are doing that by moving the application process up a month, planning to better match seats and family demand, and making the Round 2 admissions process simpler for families. With the partnership of CM Kallos, we've made real progress in expanding options on Roosevelt Island, and the Upper East Side,” said Deputy Chancellor Josh Wallack. “We encourage families to pre-register for their seat by May 20, and we'll continue to work tirelessly to ensure every family knows about the benefits of pre-K and is able to apply during the next round of admissions.”

“Roosevelt Island Day Nursery, Inc. (RIDN) is thrilled to be able to further meet the needs of the community by offering new full day UPK classes starting September 2016. We thank Council Member Kallos's office and the Department of Education for their support during the approval process.” said Pamela Stark, Executive Director of the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery.

“Roosevelt Island could not be more thankful for 54 additional universal Pre-K seats for our families! For more than a year members of the Roosevelt Island Parents' Network including Nisha Nihan, Danielle Goldblatt, Josie Chamla, Susy del Campo Perea and Heart Sugiyama teamed up in an effort to get more local UPK seats for our children. We collected lists of names, called and e-mailed our elected officials and requested more seats from the DOE. The mission of the Roosevelt Island Parents' Network is to serve its over 500 member families, keeping them connected through a discussion forum and various activities, and to advocate for their needs. We thank Council Member Ben Kallos and his team for working with us and bringing more local UPK seats to RI! Having a sufficient number of UPK seats on Roosevelt Island strengthens our commitment to the international, diverse, mixed income island neighborhood, a community that is welcoming to all.” said Eva Bosbach of the Roosevelt Island Parents' Network

“As an upper east side parent, I am concerned not only about the chances of my own child obtaining a pre-K spot in the neighborhood but also about the children of my friends and neighbors. That is why I have been speaking out about the insufficient number of seats in the area, spreading the word in the PS 183 Times, and working with Council Member Ben Kallos. I am glad to learn that Council Member Kallos has obtained additional seats for our neighborhood and applaud his efforts on this issue.” - said Ariel Chesler an author and parent at P.S. 183

“As parents my wife and I are thrilled to hear about more pre-k seats being announced for this area of the city we have lived for 15 years. It will mean more options for families of the Upper East Side to have their children grow and thrive in our community.”- said Jack Moran a parent at P.S. 183.

The list of locations with available in the Upper East Side and on Roosevelt Island are:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) (NEW)
405 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
4 River Road, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
2016-17 Seats: 54 Full day

Manhattan Schoolhouse (NEW)
1608 First Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10028
2016-17 Seats: 36 Full day

P.S. / I.S. 217 Roosevelt Island
645 Main St, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
2016-17 Seats: 36 Full day

Renanim Manhattan
336 East 61st St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 16 Full day

East Side Elementary School, P.S. 267
213 East 63rd St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 18 Full day

Ella Baker School
317 East 67th St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 54 Full day

Lenox Hill Neighborhood House
331 East 70th St, Manhattan, NY 10021
2016-17 Seats: 80 Full day

P.S. 158 Bayard Taylor
1458 York Ave, Manhattan, NY 10075
2016-17 Seats: 72 Full day

Cassidy's Place
419 East 86th St, Manhattan, NY 10028
2016-17 Seats: 36 Full day and Half Day

Eisman Day Nursery
1794 First Ave, Manhattan, NY 10128
2016-17 Seats: 39 Full day

P.S. 198 Isador E Ida Straus
1700 Third Ave, Manhattan, NY 10128
2016-17 Seats: 54 Full day

Lexington Children's Center
115 East 98th St, Manhattan, NY 10029
2016-17 Seats: 20 Full day

UPDATE 12:55 PM - RIDN's Pamela Stark reports that the RIDN Pre K seats are at their 4 River Road location, not 405 Main Street as listed in the Press Release above.

Roosevelt Island Parents Apply Now For Universal Pre Kindergarten Seats Says NYC Council Member Ben Kallos - Deadline Wednesday March 9

Roosevelt Island NYC Council Member Ben Kallos reports on this week's deadline to apply for Universal Pre Kindergarten seats. According to Mr. Kallos:

Apply Now for Universal Pre-K, the deadline is THIS Wednesday, March 9, 2016.
All New York City children born in 2012 are eligible to attend free, full-day Pre-K this upcoming fall. Sign up now at nyc.gov/prek

Please email me at upk@benkallos.com once you apply so we can add you to our list of families in need of UPK.

More than 425 seats are currently available in my Council District for 2016-17 from the list below (or visit maps.nyc.gov/upk):

P.S. / I.S. 217 Roosevelt Island
645 Main St, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
2016-17 Seats: 36 Full day

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN)
405 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
4 River Road, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
2016-17 Seats: Currently Seeking DOE Approval

Renanim Manhattan
336 East 61st St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 16 Full day

East Side Elementary School, P.S. 267
213 East 63rd St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 18 Full day

Ella Baker School
317 East 67th St, Manhattan, NY 10065
2016-17 Seats: 54 Full day

Lenox Hill Neighborhood House
331 East 70th St, Manhattan, NY 10021
2016-17 Seats: 80 Full day

P.S. 158 Bayard Taylor
1458 York Ave, Manhattan, NY 10075
2016-17 Seats: 72 Full day

Wee Care
451 East 83rd Street, Manhattan, NY 10028
2016-17 Seats: Currently Seeking DOE Approval

Cassidy's Place
419 East 86th St, Manhattan, NY 10028
2016-17 Seats: 36 Full day and Half Day

Eisman Day Nursery
1794 First Ave, Manhattan, NY 10128
2016-17 Seats: 39 Full day

P.S. 198 Isador E Ida Straus
1700 Third Ave, Manhattan, NY 10128
2016-17 Seats: 54 Full day

Lexington Children's Center
115 East 98th St, Manhattan, NY 10029
2016-17 Seats: 20 Full day

Following reporting by WNYC in 2014 that Yorkville, Lenox Hill and Roosevelt Island had 2,118 four-year-olds and only 123 pre-K seats, we've been working with parents to pressure the Department of Education to open more seats in my Council District. We successfully doubled the number of seats at P.S./I.S. 217 on Roosevelt Island last year and as of this year have nearly quadrupled the number of seats that were originally reported by WNYC. Thank you to Eva Bosbach along with the Roosevelt Island Parents Network as well as Ariel Chesler and Jack Moran on the East Side whom we are working with to open new seats in the Council District.

We are actively seeking parents to help us organize other families in need of seats as well as providers with whom parents are comfortable with in order to expand the number of Pre-K seats in the district.

Please Apply Now and Email upk@benkallos.com.

The NYC Department of Education has more on information on the Universal Pre Kindergarten program.

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Is A Candidate To Offer NYC Department Of Education Universal Pre Kindergarten Class For 2016-17 School Year - Is Your Family Interested?

 Image From Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery reports:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) is pleased to announce that we are a candidate to offer Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) classes on Roosevelt Island for the 2016-2017 school year. We are optimistic that RIDN will be an approved UPK site for many reasons: we already have the necessary Department of Health license, are staffed with Director/teachers that have the required qualifications, and have a proven history as a UPK site.

There are a number of steps that need to happen before we are definitely approved. We are hoping to know definitively in spring. In the meantime, the Department of Education is seeking information from us. In order to help them determine how many spots RIDN may be allotted, they would like to know how many families in the Roosevelt Island community would be interested in a full-day UPK program. Communicating your interest at this early stage is important to the planning process; we hope to serve as many community families as possible. (As described in the DOE UPK community-based organization's admissions guidelines, RIDN will first allocate UPK spots for children currently enrolled at RIDN). If you have a child born in 2012 (eligible for UPK in 2016-2017), are not currently attending RIDN and are interested in your child attending a full-day UPK in September, please email Rhonda at office@ridn.org. Please include your name, your child's full name and date of birth, address, and your phone contact information.

If you are interested in enrolling your child at RIDN before September 2016, we do still have vacancies and would be happy to give you a tour. We also have some scheduled Open Houses where we will share information about our philosophy and tour both of our sites:

• Friday, February 5 8-:30 am-9:30 am (morning tour)
• Thursday, February 25 6:30-8 pm (evening tour)
• Saturday, February 27 10:30 am-12 pm (weekend tour)

If you would like to attend one of these Open Houses, please RSVP to Rhonda at office@ridn.org.

If RIDN does become an approved UPK provider for the 2016-2017 school year, we look forward to meeting this need by helping more families be able to have a high-quality full-day UPK program located on the Island.

Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 currently has 2 full day 18 seat pre-kindergarten classes. One class is entirely of siblings.

Parents have said there is a great need for additional pre-kindergarten seats on Roosevelt Island.

Image From NYC Department Of Education Pre-K

Roosevelt Island's Island Kids and the St Cabrini Catholic Parish are reportedly trying to establish a Pre-Kindergarten program as well.

More information on NYC DOE Pre-Kindergarten program available here and at previous posts.

NYC Pre K Application Period Begins Today - Roosevelt Island PS 217 Offering Full Day Program Says DOE Update

Are you a Roosevelt Island parent interested in a Pre-Kindergarten school program for your child? The New York City Department of Education (DOE) reports:

Pre-K Application Period Is Open!

If you live in New York City and your child was born in 2011, he or she is eligible to attend a free, high quality pre-K program in September 2015. The application period runs from Monday, March 16, 2015 to Friday, April 24, 2015.

and Mayor de Blasio tweets:

It’s a big day for our city: the application period for #prekforall is now open. Apply now: http://t.co/72AzNECe6k pic.twitter.com/JoAgE40vyH
— Bill de Blasio (@BilldeBlasio) March 16, 2015

Roosevelt Island parent Desiree Charles reported March 6:

So the 2015 Pre-K directory just came out today and PS217 isn't one of the many schools that have gone from offering half day programs to full day programs. The question is why? What happened to the $300 million in funds allocated to providing full-day pre-k to all NY City Public School children. Roosevelt Island is definitely a community that is dying for affordable/free full-day pre-k.

The full-day pre-k options are Roosevelt Island Day Nursery at $17K which actually opted out of the universal pre-k system. Or you can use Bright Horizons at about $14K a school year. Besides cost, there are the difficult logistics this presents to parents who already have a child at 217 - how do you handle pick-ups and drop-offs with one kid on the island and another kid (4 years old) off-island all at the same time?

It's pretty disappointing to say the least! Why has the DOE chosen not to move forward with Roosevelt Island? With no other affordable full-day pre-k options, Roosevelt Island should have been among the first schools to transition.

I asked Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Principal Mandana Beckman:

I understand that Roosevelt Island's PS 217 was not chosen for full day Pre Kindergarten class.

Is that true?

I have received inquires on that subject from Roosevelt Island parents.

Can you provide any information on the subject to the community.

Ms. Beckman replied on March 10:

PS/IS 217 supports the DOE’s expansion of full day Universal PreK. Although we will continue to have 2 half day sections for the 2015-2016 school year, we will be working throughout the year on ways to address accommodating full day PreK in our Pre K to Grade 8 school in the future.

Ms. Charles followed up on March 15:

An update to the Pre-K Directory was just released and lists PS217 as going full day! I can't tell you how excited I am!

The DOE has more information and application for Pre K program here.

Image From NYC DOE Pre K Update Page 6

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) Executive Director Pamela Stark explains why RIDN declined to participate in the NYC DOE Pre K program:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery is an independent school that has offered quality early childhood education to Roosevelt Island residents for 40 years. In addition to highly qualified professional teaching staff, RIDN also offers an excellent teacher to child ratio and special activities including Music Together with Owen (of RI Music Together and MST & DA) and Creative Movement and Dance with Debra (of MST & DA).

As a not-for-profit school, RIDN continues to look for ways to help keep our quality early childhood program an option for as many families as possible. We offer financial aid to families who qualify, a sibling discount for families who have more than one child attending RIDN, and we have a partnership with Weill Cornell which provides subsidized tuition for five postdoctoral families each year. We are also open to creating further partnerships with local employers seeking to subsidize school tuition for their employees, and the school is actively engaged in various fundraising efforts to support its program, including events focused at current students, alumni, and the broader community.

Unfortunately the NYC Universal Pre-K funding that the Department of Education provides is not only insufficient to support the program we offer, it currently imposes obligations upon recipient schools that are unworkable at RIDN. As a result, RIDN’s Board of Directors (the majority of whom are current RIDN parents) has decided not to pursue UPK funding at this time. Other independent schools in Manhattan have made similar decisions.

Here's more information (including video) on Roosevelt Island PS 217 Pre Kindergarten, Kindergarten and Gifted & Talented program at this January 12 Community Board 8 meeting.

UPDATE 4:10 PM - The Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA is holding a Silent Auction Fundraiser Saturday March 21 from 2-5 PM.

More information on the PS/IS 217 PTA Silent Auction fundraiser and an online catalog for the auction available at their web site.

UPDATE 6:30 PM - PS 217 Principal Mandana Beckman reports that the Roosevelt Island full day Pre K program will have 1 class with 18 children. The previous half day program had two classes with 18 children each.

Also, the DOE page has changed from 36 seats (listed in Screenshot above) to

 Image From NYC DOE Pre K Update Page 6

 18 seats for 1 class.

Pamela Stark Named Executive Director Of Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

 Image From RIDN

According to this Press Release from the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Announces New Executive Director

The Board of Trustees of Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN), a progressive independent community preschool serving Roosevelt Island families since 1975, is pleased to announce the appointment of Pamela Stark, Ed.M., M.S., as the school’s​ E​xecutive Director.

Ms. Stark’s comprehensive knowledge of early childhood education, her success in building RIDN’s infant­ toddler program, and her leadership as Interim Executive Director since May 2014 have been outstanding. The Board is confident that under her direction RIDN and its exceptional faculty will continue to serve the Roosevelt Island community with one of the very highest quality child­centered preschool programs in New York City.

Reem Berro, Chair of the Board of Trustees, notes, “I am thrilled that Pam accepted her new role as RIDN’s Executive Director. The board and I are confident that she is the best person for the job given her long history with the school and proven record of exceptional leadership.”

A thorough recruitment process was conducted by the Board’s hiring committee, which was composed of current and former RIDN parents, faculty, and alumni. Three of the committee members also have experience as preschool directors. This search process made it evident that Ms. Stark’s outstanding qualifications and experience uniquely position her to advance the mission and vision of the school, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

Pamela Stark received her B.A. from St. John’s College, her Ed.M. in Early Childhood Special Education from the Bank Street College of Education, and her M.S. from Columbia University’s School of Social Work. Ms. Stark served as a consultant to RIDN for fourteen years, leading trainings and workshops and advising parents and faculty on a wide range of early childhood developmental and educational issues. She joined the school in 2011 as the Director of RIDN’s new Infant ­Toddler program at 405 Main Street, building on her knowledge and expertise to shape and lead an outstanding child­centered program for RIDN’s very youngest learners.

UPDATE 2/26 9 PM - Ms. Stark

Image From RIDN

Lewdness Investigation At The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery This Week - RIDN Board Of Trustees Says NYPD Determined No Crime Committed

The May 5 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Daily Report indicated an incident involving lewdness at the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN):

05/05/14 - 2036 - 4 River Road - Lewdness - PSD responded - Under investigation.

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Director Jack McManus added that the incident was under investigation by the NYPD.

On May 7, I asked representatives from the RIDN:

I am receiving reports of inappropriate conduct by a staffer at the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery which is currently being investigated by NYPD

Is that true?

Does RIDN have any statement regarding the incident.

The RIDN Board Of Trustees responded May 8:

Wednesday afternoon representatives of the Roosevelt Island Board of Trustees spoke with the NYPD regarding the alleged incident and were informed that NYPD has determined that no laws were broken and no crime was been committed. They were further informed that barring unforeseen circumstances the investigation will be closed and no further investigation will be necessary.

Sincerely,

Board of Trustees
Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

The RIDN Board Of Trustees added today:

The Board’s current understanding is that the alleged incident occurred well after closing hours and that the staffer was alone at the time. No children, other staff or parents were involved.

UPDATE 5:20 PM - The RIDN Board Of Trustees reported to parents:

... The Board as a precautionary measure Wednesday morning suspended the staffer who was allegedly involved in the incident to protect the school and those affiliated with it. The staffer in question is not permitted on the school premises while suspended, pending the Board's resolution of this situation....

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Upcoming Open House Schedule - Programs For Ages 3 Months To 5 Years

Click here for more information about the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery.

Roosevelt Island Jobs Available - PS/IS 217 Gifted & Talented Teachers, RIDN Nursery Teachers And NY Foundling Disability Specialists/Residence Managers

Image From How I Save Money

Are you looking for a job on Roosevelt Island? Maybe one of these positions listed on Craigslist are suitable for you.

According to Craigslist:

PS/IS 217, a PreK-Grade 8 District 2 NYCDOE public school located on Roosevelt Island, is seeking two elementary gifted and talented teachers for the 13-14 school year. Candidates must have common branch certification AND the gifted and talented extension/certification to be considered. Please email with a cover letter and resume.

More information available here.

And:

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery at Riverwalk Crossing is currently seeking part time and substitute teachers.

Part time and substitute teachers needed to work with children from age three months to three and a half years old. Seeking teachers who can work 4-6pm Monday through Friday or 8-10am Monday-Friday....

More information available here.

And:

The New York Foundling (the "Foundling") is one of the oldest, largest and most well-respected human services agencies in New York. Established as a home for abandoned children, the Foundling has been saving children, preserving families, and building communities since 1869. The Foundling's focus is on child welfare and the developmentally disabled and is dedicated to creating a community where each child, youth and adult enjoys the safe, stable and support relationships needed to reach his or her full physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual potential. We have over 1300 employees located in every borough of New York City, Westchester and Rockland Counties and in Puerto Rico.

We are currently looking to hire Disability Specialists and Residence Managers in our residential programs for developmentally-disabled adults in the Bronx, Roosevelt Island and Staten Island. Responsibilities will include:...

More information available here.

Good Luck.

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery School For Children Ages 3 Months to 5 Years Registration Begins This Month

Image From Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

Are you Roosevelt Island parents looking for child care nursery program close to home? If so, you may wish to consider the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) for your child. According to RIDN web site:

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) is an international school whose population reflects the rich ethnic, cultural and racial diversity of the Roosevelt Island community. The Day Nursery provides infant, toddler, preschool and Universal PreK programs for children ages 3 months through 5 years.

RIDN is located in two sites offering views of the East River the Queensboro Bridge and the NYC skyline. Each school provides opportunities for year round outdoor play in well equipped playgrounds and beautiful green lawns.

RIDN has been serving the community for over 30 years and welcomes visitors to see and learn more about our many programs.

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery sent the following information regarding their upcoming Registration process:

Registration for Roosevelt Island Day Nursery's Programs for children from ages 3 months to 6 years, for both River Road and Riverwalk Crossing locations

*Tuesday, March 20 and Wednesday March 21- Priority Registration for families currently enrolled at River Road and Riverwalk Crossing (including siblings and alumni families)
*Thursday, March 22- Priority registration for Riverwalk Crossing residents who have no current or previous affiliation with RIDN
*Tuesday, April 17- Open registration for the community

Registration will take place at the RIDN located at 4 River Road, from 8am-3pm.
Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
All registrations must be accompanied by a 10% deposit (5% for those families applying for financial aid) to secure a place for your child.

 More information on RIDN available at their web site including tuition and financial aid information.

The RIDN is one of the applicants for Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds and intends to use any grants awarded to supplement their financial aid program for Roosevelt Island residents.

Infant/Toddler Teaching Job Available With Roosevelt Island Day Nursery

Are you interested in a job as an Infant/Toddler Teacher with the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery? If so, this December 14 listing from Craigslist may be of interest.

 Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher
○ Full-Time position to begin January 2011
○ BA or AA in Early Childhood Education, considered
○ Masters in ECE and NYS certified, preferred
○ Experience working in an early childhood setting (0-3), REQUIRED 

Click here to apply.

Roosevelt Island Day Nursery Registration Starts Today For January - June 2011 Program

Are you the parent of a two year old Roosevelt Islander? If so, you may be interested in the the following information from the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN):

Announcing.........

a NEW program for the NEW YEAR!

Half Day Two's is a 5 morning class (9 am-12 noon) for 2 year old children born between April and December 2008.

Registration will begin on December 7th! 

According to the RIDN:

The Roosevelt Island Day Nursery (RIDN) is an international school whose population reflects the rich ethnic, cultural and racial diversity of the Roosevelt Island community. The Day Nursery provides infant, toddler, preschool and Universal PreK programs for children ages 3 months through 5 years.

RIDN is located in two sites offering views of the East River the Queensboro Bridge and the NYC skyline. Each school provides opportunities for year round outdoor play in well equipped playgrounds and beautiful green lawns.

A 2009 Main Street WIRE article has more on the RIDN:

After more than 30 years in one location, the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery will soon be adding a second facility. The addition will be located in Building #6 of the Riverwalk project, and will be known as the Roosevelt Island Day Nursery at Riverwalk. The age group served there will be three months to three years. (After age three, children can attend the present facility at 4 River Road. When a student reaches age five, a parent has two options ?the Day Nursery for a year of kindergarten, or a transfer to kindergarten at PS 217.)...