Schalmont is excited to announce that we will start a Pre-Kindergarten program this fall at the former Woestina Elementary School.

“We are truly excited about our plan for Schalmont’s Pre-K program,” said Superintendent Dr. Thomas Reardon. “We have studied every angle of Pre-K over the past two years and believe we’ll be able to offer an outstanding program for our community’s youngest learners.”

A Pre-K Interest Form is available for families interested in the program.

Forms must be returned by Friday, April 11 to:

Schalmont CSD
4 Sabre Drive
Schenectady, NY 12306
Attention: Pre-K Program

This form can also be sent by email to dwoods@schalmont.net. If you have a question, please contact the District Office at 518-355-9200 ext. 4001.

Schalmont’s Pre-K program will feature three classrooms for as many as 54 total students. If we receive interest for more than 54 students, Schalmont will use a lottery system to select families. Students beyond the first 54 drawn will be placed on a waiting list.

Children must be 4 years old by December 1, 2025 and reside in Schalmont CSD.

The Pre-K Advisory Committee looked at creating a larger program but the cost was estimated at $2.9 million. Instead, they recommended starting smaller to reduce the cost to $1.2 million while allowing Schalmont to gauge community interest.

New York State provides Pre-K funding but it does not cover the full cost. Staff is the main cost driver as each class requires a teacher and teacher assistant, as well as clerical, nurse, security, cleaning, kitchen and supervision.

Schalmont’s Pre-K program will feature Schalmont teachers and staff, setting it apart from many district-run programs.

“The Pre-K Committee felt strongly in the invaluable traits that a Schalmont faculty or staff member brings,” said Dr. Reardon. “It’s a testament to the quality of the teachers and staff that we have.”

Schalmont’s Pre-K program will run approximately 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Transportation will not be provided due to cost and challenges such as car seats and a state requirement for Schalmont to then transport to all private Pre-K programs. We are exploring aftercare opportunities; more information to come for families selected for the program.