The North Area YMCA partners with the North Syracuse School District to offer Universal Preschool and Wraparound Care for families within the North Syracuse School District.
Early Learning at The East Y
All childcare and education programming at the North Area YMCA is licensed through the Office of Child and Family Services. As a licensed childcare facility, the Y follows guidelines and regulations as laid out for the health and wellness of children. This includes training of our staff and the condition of our facilities.
UPK Education
Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) at the North Area Branch is available to families who reside in the North Syracuse School District. Our classes are held at our branch.
This program is free of cost to families and requires that students are registered with the district in advance. You can find information on registering your child at www.nscsd.org. Students are selected through an anonymous lottery process by the district.
The North Area YMCA program collaborates with the NSCSD on curriculum, including Second Step, CKLA, and Heggerty. We also promote the core values of the YMCA of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
Our program is a full-day program, starting at 9:15am to 3:15pm. Students must bring their own snacks, we do offer the option for families to buy lunch or bring their own lunch. During a typical day children will participate in community learning time, physical activity, and learning centers. For more information on what a typical day at UPK looks like, please contact the director of this program.
Wrap Around Care
Our wrap-around program offers extended hours from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, allowing caregivers to work while ensuring their children are safe and cared for. Each day includes a rest period for students to relax. This program requires separate registration and has a monthly fee. It focuses on positive values in a caring environment, emphasizing developmentally appropriate play and child-led activities that foster confidence, teamwork, and responsibility. A healthy snack is provided. The YMCA is committed to accessibility and offers scholarships for families who may find the cost burdensome. Interested families can apply by submitting a completed Scholarship Application and necessary documents.
Vacation Days
During scheduled days off, school breaks and snow days, the North Area Family YMCA offers full day care from 8:30am - 5:00pm. UPK Students can be registered on a first-come, first-served basis. The North Area YMCA follows the North Syracuse Central School District calendar. There is a minimum participant requirement that must be met for the program to run. Space is limited.
Snow Days
Snow day programming registrations are not available in advance. When the district announces school closure due to weather, registration will be available online at 6:30 am.