Not every town in Westchester County offers a universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) program, and even in the towns that do, the term “universal” can be misleading. Many programs are lottery-based, meaning that families moving into a district after March may find themselves on a waitlist until the following academic year.
It’s also important to note that while UPK is often referred to as “free,” the programs are actually funded through local tax dollars. Still, securing a spot can save families upwards of $16,000 per child annually, depending on where in Westchester you live.
Here are some of the districts that currently offer UPK:
-
Chappaqua
-
Croton Harmon (Croton-on-Hudson)
-
Edgemont
-
Hendrick Hudson
-
Mamaroneck
-
Mount Pleasant
-
New Rochelle
-
Ossining
-
Pleasantville
-
Tarrytown
-
White Plains
-
Valhalla
-
Yorktown Heights
Districts without UPK programs include:
-
Briarcliff Manor
-
Blind Brook (Rye Brook)
-
Byram Hills (Armonk)
-
Dobbs Ferry
-
Harrison
-
Pelham
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it highlights some of the districts I’m most frequently asked about by buyers considering a move to Westchester.
If you’re weighing school districts, community amenities, or the true costs of homeownership, I’m here to help. With more than a decade of experience and deep local knowledge, I can guide you through not just the real estate market, but also the lifestyle factors — from schools to commuting to neighborhood culture — that influence your decision.
If you’d like to learn more about a district not mentioned here, or if you’re starting your search for the right Westchester community, call or text me at 914-438-0139.
~Melissa Colabella
Destination Westchester | Your go-to resource for Westchester County Real Estate
