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Early learning programs put children on the path to succeed in school and be ready for college and careers!

What is UPK?

There are more free and low-cost preschool spots available in our community. Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) is made up of a variety of preschool programs that may be familiar to you. Your family can choose the best preschool for your 3- or 4- your old that meets your cultural, family, and life needs. 

Cuisenaire Rods

Pathways to Kindergarten

0-3 years old

Early Learning and Care

Early Head Start/Head Start

State-Funded Preschool

Licensed Childcare Center or Home

Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregiver

Universal PreKindergarten

3-4 years old

Head Start

State-Funded Preschool

Transitional Kindergarten (TK)

Private PreK Provider

Family Choice of Childcare or Home

Starting Kindergarten

Kindergarten

5-years-old

Check out the chart below that describes the types of programs available for you.

Preschool Choices Available for 3-5-Year-Olds

Families can choose from a variety of preschool programs for their young children.
Here's a breakdown of some of those choices.

Name
California State Preschool Program (CSPP)
Head Start
Private
Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Ages

3- and 4-year-olds

3- and 4-year-olds

3- and 4-year-olds

4-year-olds, depending on birthday

What it is

Preschool program run through contracts from the State of California

Federally-funded preschool program

Variety of half-day and full-day preschool and childcare programs

Part of the public elementary school system that takes place the year before kindergarten

Schedule

Part-day and full-day options available

Part-day and full-day options available

Part-day and full-day determined by individual preschool providers

Part-day and full-day options available, depending on local decisions

Cost

Free or low-cost, based on income eligibility and other factors

Free, based on income eligibility

Fees determined by individual preschool providers. Some families may be eligible for state subsidized vouchers to cover the costs of care.

Free, regardless of income

UPK brings together all of these programs so families have more choices of high-quality learning programs that meet their needs. UPK also connects before and afterschool and private care programs so families have options for a full day of care.

About

Additional Resources

For additional assistance in choosing the right program for your family, please visit Sierra Nevada Children’s Services

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