NYC Pre-K Applications Slip to 94,400 as Mamdani Outreach Fails to Lift Demand

1 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 19

More than 94,400 applications were filed for New York City's 3-K and pre-K seats this fall, about 400 fewer than last year despite months of promotion by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
The flat showing suggests outreach did not expand the applicant pool for a child-care agenda Mamdani has made central to his affordability platform.
City data point instead to weaker underlying demand: the number of pre-K-eligible children was roughly unchanged, while the 3-K-eligible population fell by about 1,000 from a year earlier.
Enrollment has leveled off in recent years after about 103,000 applications two years ago, reflecting fewer births, families leaving the city and a slowdown in migrant arrivals.
Pre-K offers went out last week, and 3-K offers are due Tuesday, leaving the administration under pressure to find new ways to raise enrollment.

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