Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn today called on New York City parents to take advantage of free universal pre-kindergarten seats that are still available throughout the City. Currently, half-day and full-day seats remain available at schools and community-based organizations for children who turn four years of age by December 31, 2007.

"Resources are in place to benefit thousands of families who want their children to receive free pre-kindergarten instruction," said Mayor Bloomberg. "I want to remind parents that early childhood is an important time for learning. Studies show that children who receive high-quality early childhood education are more likely to excel in the future, so we are encouraging parents to take advantage of available seats in our pre-kindergarten programs before December 31."

"Full day pre-k may be our best opportunity to give kids a strong start on their education, and the Council is proud to have worked with the City in creating thousands of new slots in the last two years," said Speaker Christine C. Quinn. "But these programs won't benefit anyone unless parents take advantage of them by getting their kids enrolled now. I join the Mayor in urging all parents of four year olds to sign up for this free and essential service."

The City has taken critical steps towards increasing universal pre-kindergarten for four-year olds whose families desire the enriched educational program. More seats are now available in public school buildings, community based organizations, and Administration for Children's Services  contract child care centers. The City also continues to advocate on behalf of City families for more flexible Universal Pre-kindergarten (UPK) funds from the State to implement full-day programs.

Information about UPK sites with vacancies and the application form are available in the eight languages on the Department of Education Web site: http://schools.nyc.gov/Academics/EarlyChildhood. Enrollment continues through December 31, 2007.