January 2026: What’s Happening in NYC Public Schools

The beginning of 2026 includes key admissions dates for our youngest students to enroll in school for fall 2026. Join one of our elementary admissions virtual events listed at schools.nyc.gov/ESevents, where we'll guide you through the 3-K, pre-k, and kindergarten admissions processes.

Important Admissions Dates for Fall 2026

The beginning of 2026 includes key admissions dates for our youngest students to enroll in school for fall 2026. Join one of our elementary admissions virtual events listed at schools.nyc.gov/ESevents, where we'll guide you through the 3-K, pre-k, and kindergarten admissions processes.

Kindergarten Application Deadline

If your child was born in 2021, they can attend kindergarten starting in September 2026. Submit your application by Friday, January 23, 2026-you can add kindergarten Dual Language and Gifted and Talented programs directly to your child's application at MySchools.nyc(Open external link).nyc.

3-K and Pre-K Applications Open

Get ready for your little ones to begin their educational journey-NYCPS 3-K and pre-k applications open Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

  • If your child was born in 2023, they can attend 3-K starting in September 2026.
  • If your child was born in 2022, they can attend pre-k starting in September 2026.

To learn more about 3-K and pre-k education in New York City, how to locate a program near you, and how to apply, visit our website at schools.nyc.gov/3K and schools.nyc.gov/PreK

NYC Teenspace

Did you know there are free mental health services available for NYC teenagers? NYC Teenspace is for New Yorkers aged 13-17 who struggle with mental health challenges or want somebody to talk to about their concerns. Connect with a licensed therapist for ongoing support, access online mental health exercises to complete at your own pace, and more. Sign up at nyc.nyc.gov/Teenspace(Open external link) to access these services at no cost regardless of school, income level, or insurance status. Our schools also partner with community-based organizations and school-based health centers to provide mental health support to students. Talk to your parent coordinator to learn more about partnerships at your school, as well as support available from school staff such as counselors and social workers.

Climate Action Day

The second NYCPS Climate Action Day for the 2025-26 school year is coming up on Wednesday, February 4! Each Climate Action Day, NYC public school communities engage in activities highlighting climate education and sustainability practices connected to the theme of the day. The theme for February, "Energy," encourages schools to plan activities throughout the month that teach students and families about energy conservation and renewable energy sources. Visit schools.nyc.gov/ClimateAction to learn more.

Respect for All Week

This year, Respect for All (RFA) Week will be February 9-13, 2026! Throughout the week, schools across the City will highlight and build upon ongoing programs to help students, staff members, and communities gain a better appreciation of one another, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. In addition, students will participate in lessons and activities which focus on preventing bullying, intimidation, and bias-based harassment culminating in "National No One Eats Alone Day" on Friday, February 13.

To learn more about Respect for All Week, and to find out more about NYCPS initiatives and resources to combat bullying and harassment, please visit schools.nyc.gov/RespectForAll.

The Morning Bell

Did you know that the latest news and helpful resources for NYC families can all be found online on The Morning Bell? Bookmark us at schools.nyc.gov/MorningBell and share your school's Climate Action Day (#ClimateActionDay) and RFA Week plans (#RespectforAllWeek or #RFAWeek) on social media (@nycschools) for us to spotlight!