Thousands of families in New York City are facing uncertainty after being waitlisted for the city’s free 3-K program, with many expressing frustration at the lack of clarity surrounding their children’s education. The Department of Education confirmed that 2,400 families were left without a placement, sparking concerns about the future of their toddlers’ education. Parents like Ken Anderson have expressed frustration at the lack of information from the DOE and voiced concerns about the availability and accessibility of 3-K spots.
Mayor Eric Adams has promised that every child who wants a seat in a 3-K program will get one, but the location of the remaining 9,000 spots remains unknown. This uncertainty means that some families may have to accept secondary options that require lengthy commutes, causing further stress and frustration. As the deadline to accept 3-K offers approaches, many families are grappling with impractical offers that they have received, such as being placed in programs far from home without the opportunity to tour the location.
One parent from Roosevelt Island described listing 12 schools during the application process, only to receive an offer for a program that is a 50-minute commute from their home and refusing a tour of the location. Frustrated parents like this individual feel misled by the promise of available 3-K spots and are unsure of what to do next if they do not have a suitable option for their child. Councilwoman Julie Won has heard from numerous parents in her district who are frustrated by the lack of clarity and transparency surrounding 3-K placements, with many questioning why schools in their district are full of children from other neighborhoods.
Parents across the five boroughs can apply for schools citywide, and district zoning does not necessarily determine placement. However, borough maps can be deceiving and may lead to families being placed in programs that are impractical or unreachable due to lack of public transportation options. The lack of clear communication and transparency from the DOE has left many families feeling frustrated and unsure of what to do next. While some parents have received offers after initially being waitlisted, information on the location of these options remains unavailable.
The DOE spokesman noted that over 200 parents have now received offers, but could not provide information on where these options were located. City officials have also failed to provide a timeline for a report from consulting firm Accenture that would help map out needs and seats for the 3-K program. During an education hearing, officials reduced the initial cost of the report from $760,000 to $350,000 or $250,000, further adding to the confusion surrounding the 3-K program. The lack of clarity and transparency in the 3-K application process has left parents feeling frustrated and uncertain about their children’s educational opportunities.
