Q: Does the district have the right to choose the curricula that must be used at each eligible agency?

A: Curricula selection is the responsibility of the district. It is highly recommended that the same curricula be used in all UPK classrooms regardless of the setting. However, the district does have the discretion to allow eligible agencies to use alternative curricula if, upon review, it is determined that such curricula are aligned with the New York State Learning Standards and provides a continuity of learning with the district’s early elementary program. More information regarding curricula can be found on OEL’s curriculum web page.  

Q: Does NYSED have a list of recommended curricula or assessments for UPK programs?

A: No. NYSED does not endorse any curricula or assessment tools. The selection of these is up to each district. However, NYSED’s Office of Early Learning can provide guidance and technical assistance to help districts select curricula and assessment tools. More information can be found on OEL’s assessment web page. 

Q: What are the appropriate certifications for UPK teachers?

A: Commissioner’s Regulations 151-1.3(e) outlines the qualifications for teachers providing instruction in UPK classrooms or in eligible agencies. Teachers must hold a teaching license or certificate valid for service in the early childhood grades pursuant to Part 80 of this Title.

Q: Do UPK teachers providing instruction in eligible agencies need to be certified?

A: Under the Commissioner’s regulations, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) who partner with a district do not have to have certified teachers. However, the teachers who are employed at the CBO must meet the minimum requirements of their overseeing agency, if that overseeing agency is not the New York State Education Department (NYSED). This is typically the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) for districts outside of New York City. 

Q: Are there additional requirements for eligible agencies if there are uncertified teachers?

A: If there are uncertified teachers at the CBO location, the CBO must have an on-site education director who oversees the program. The on-site education director, at a minimum, must have a bachelor's in early childhood education. If they do not hold certification in the early childhood grades, they must submit a 5-year plan of study to the district. The culmination of this 5-year plan would be that the on-site director obtains proper certification valid for service in the grades of early childhood education. While the on-site director remains uncertified, the district has to put a plan in place to oversee the program. Such a plan must be submitted to NYSED by October 31st of each school year. Once the on-site director holds certification, the district no longer needs to have direct oversight of the program.