An email on one of my parent listserves a few weeks ago said "Help! Confused about the K admissions process." This is not uncommon feeling at this time of year as many parents are knee deep in the private school applications process. However, many are surprised to hear that, with the exception of Hunter and G&T programs, the public school application process doesn't happen until the beginning of the next year, long after the private school process has ended.
The public elementary admissions timeline for 2012 is:
| January 9, 2012 – March 2, 2012 | Kindergarten Application Period |
| March 19, 2012 – March 23, 2012 | Families Notified About Assignment Offers |
| March 26, 2012 – April 20, 2012 | Offer Acceptance Period |
Recently, Scott Stringer, Manhattan's Borough President, has undertaken an initiative to help simplify the kindergarten admission process, something near and dear to all New York City parents. Nothing casues more anxiety to NYC parents than where to send their child(ren) to kindergarten and how to go about getting in and registering. In a letter to School Chancellor, Dennis Walcott, Mr. Stringer provides suggestions about how to simplify the process for both families and schools. These include adjusting admissions timelines to eliminate waitlists, automating admissions, standardizing applications and offering school directories tailored to each district.
Full story and copy of letter can be found at Gotham Schools, here.
We want to hear your comments. Tell us your suggestions on how to make the process better for all involved below in our comments section.
