GREENWOOD LAKE- For the first time ever, universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) slots are coming to the Greenwood Lake Union Free School District thanks to funds secured by State Senator James Skoufis (D, Cornwall) in the state budget.
Senator Skoufis joined Greenwood Lake Union Free School District leadership and local officials on Thursday to announce historic levels of school aid funded in this year’s state budget and the creation of 20 first-ever pre-kindergarten seats at Greenwood Lake.
The recently-enacted budget is the first in many years to fully fund the state’s share of school foundation aid. This historic boost equates to approximately 25 percent, or $102 million, above last year’s state-funded aid for Orange County School Districts. Skoufis noted this increased state aid allows local school districts to keep property taxes down without sacrificing educational services for children.
“As the product of a great public school education here in Orange County, I’m committed to doing all I can to support our students, teachers, administrators, and families,” said Skoufis. “By giving each of our students access to a phenomenal education, we’re leveling the playing field for kids and encouraging smart stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I applaud all the work Greenwood Lake UFSD has done to ensure the strongest possible early childhood experiences while eliminating a huge financial burden for our young working families.”
School Superintendent Sarah Hadden welcomed the new program, slated to begin next year. Hadden said, “Opening our Pre-Kindergarten classroom is a landmark moment for Greenwood Lake.”
Elementary Principal Dianne Connolly spoke to the benefits early education has for young children. “Having these young ones join us for fun and friendly, hands-on learning will help establish a positive association with school and provide lots of opportunities to develop academic and social skills while becoming part of our LakerPride community,” said Connolly.
The state’s UPK funding is considered ‘use it or lose it,’ meaning that school districts that do not choose to create pre-kindergarten programs will be forced to return the aid to Albany.
