PARENTS

Universal Prekindergarten

“Universal Prekindergarten” (UPK) is the expansion of the state’s mixed delivery system to meet the early education needs of 3- and 4-year-old children and their families. UPK is an important part of a statewide effort to provide whole-child support for children and families, and transform California’s schools to be more community-focused and equitable. Partnerships with local community groups are necessary to build successful UPK programs.

The Amador Child Care Council is funded to form a local workgroup to plan for UPK options in a mixed delivery system along with workforce development, in Amador County. Mixed Delivery systems offer a variety of early learning and care settings to allow parents and guardians an authentic choice to meet the needs of their families. The local UPK Mixed Delivery workgroup will identify program types available to families and will develop clear access and information about these options.

UPK is a mixed delivery approach that brings together programs across early learning, including Transitional Kindergarten (TK), California State Preschool Program (CSPP), as well as Head Start, community-based organizations (CBOs), including family child care, and private preschools. UPK ensures that every four-year-old child – regardless of background, race, zip code, immigration status, or income level – has equitable access to a quality learning experience the year before kindergarten. UPK also ensures that families have a meaningful choice for programs that can support the specific needs of their children.

Please see PowerPoint button included for more details and local meeting information.