Steps to Prepare for Kindergarten Transition
- Sign Up for Updates: Register at schools.nyc.gov/signup to get notified when the Kindergarten application opens.
- Check for Welcome Packet: Look out for the yellow welcome packet from NYC Public Schools (NYCPS). Learn more about colored letters here.
- Attend Orientation: Register for NYCPS’ Kindergarten Orientation to learn about the process here.
- Confirm Referral: Ensure your local Committee of Preschool Special Education (CPSE) has referred your child to the Committee on Special Education (CSE) for the Kindergarten IEP Process.
- Join a Webinar: Register here for INCLUDEnyc’s Kindergarten IEP Process (KIP) webinar.
Steps to Apply for Kindergarten
- Apply:
- Online: Set up a MySchools account.
- In-person: Visit your Family Welcome Center.
- By phone: Call (718) 935-2009.
- Rank Schools: Choose up to 12 schools and rank them based on preference.
- Receive Offer Letter: Offers arrive in the spring.
- Accept Offer:
- Online via MySchools.nyc.
- By phone or email (details provided in the offer letter).
- Register: Contact the school to arrange registration.
Additional Steps For Preschool Students with IEPs Entering Kindergarten
- Request Evaluations (if necessary):
- Review the current IEP, provider progress reports, and evaluations.
- Request new evaluations by writing to your CSE district representative if necessary.
- Attend IEP Meeting: Attend your child’s Kindergarten IEP meeting when notified by the KIP team. It is within your right and highly recommended that you be present during your child’s IEP meeting, if the scheduled time does not work for you, you can request to reschedule the meeting.
- Obtain Documentation: Make sure you receive a copy of the IEP and Prior Written Notice (PWN) that summarizes your child’s Special Education Services and provides School placement information.
- Placement Letter: Expect the green or purple school placement letter by mid-June.
- Accept Placement: Contact the school to arrange a tour and complete registration.
- Schedule a Meeting: Meet with the new school to discuss the IEP and transition plan.
Need Help?
- Call the INCLUDEnyc Help Line for guidance:
- English: (212) 677-4660
- Español: (212) 677-4668
- For placement questions, email: KindergartenIEPProcess@schools.nyc.gov.