THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT / THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK / ALBANY, NY 12234
Early Learning
P-12 Education
Office of Early Learning
89 Washington Avenue, EB 514 West Mezzanine, Albany, NY 12234
(518) 474-5807
To:
Superintendents of Schools with Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) Allocations
UPK Program Contacts
From:
Erik Sweet, Executive Director of the Office of Early Learning
Subject:
Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) Program Monitoring
Date:
September 1, 2026
The enacted 26/27 State Budget included several changes to Universal Prekindergarten (UPK), including increased access for all school districts in New York State.
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Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, the New York State Education Department's Office of Early Learning (OEL) will implement a statewide UPK monitoring process to support program quality and continuous improvement. Consistent with the Department's oversight responsibilities under Education Law §215, a sample of UPK programs will be selected each year for review, with all districts participating at least once during the multi-year monitoring cycle. Districts selected for monitoring will be notified at the beginning of the school year and provided with information regarding timelines, required documentation, and visitation/monitoring protocols. Through this collaborative process, OEL program liaisons will work alongside districts to identify strengths, provide guidance and technical assistance, and support high-quality learning experiences for all children.
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As part of the monitoring process, selected districts will complete a Quality Assurance Protocol through the С槼ºÖ±²¥ Business Portal. The QAP provides districts with an opportunity to share information about their UPK program and submit documentation related to key areas such as curriculum and instruction, staff qualifications, professional development, health and safety practices, and program operations.
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Throughout the review process, districts work closely with their OEL program liaison, who serve as a point of contact and provide guidance, resources, and technical assistance. The goal of monitoring is to support high-quality implementation and continuous improvement through a collaborative process that encourages reflection, highlights strengths, and identifies opportunities for growth.
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When additional support is needed, OEL staff partner with districts to develop strategies that strengthen program quality and enhance outcomes for children and families. Follow-up reviews may be conducted in subsequent years to support ongoing improvement efforts and monitor progress.
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To learn more about the changes to UPK, please see the Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) for 2026-27 and Beyond resource on the OEL website. Questions regarding the UPK monitoring process may be directed to the Office of Early Learning at
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Sincerely,
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Erik Sweet
