Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (February 4, 2015) – Abilities First will host a Universal Pre-K Open House on Wednesday, February 18th, from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., at its UPK location at 4327 Albany Post Road in Hyde Park. Faculty and staff will be available to discuss the full-day program, the teaching curriculum and provide a tour of the facility. The Open House is open to the public and provides information for current enrollment, as well as for those interested in the 2015-16 school year.

The Abilities First UPK program serves up to 68 children in small class settings of 17, with one teacher and supported by one aide. The program is free of charge and transportation is provided by the school district. Utilizing the Tools of the Mind curriculum, the program prepares youth for the rigorous academic expectations of Kindergarten and the grades beyond, including science, math, art, dramatic play, as well as outdoor recreational and exploration opportunities.

Since fall 2014, Abilities First has operated the full-day Pre-K program through a collaboration with the Hyde Park Central School District and Governor Cuomo’s state-wide Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) initiative. The program operates out of the Hyde Park Elementary School that was originally designed by FDR and constructed in 1940.

For additional information about the Universal Pre-K program and the Open House, call 845-698- 1072.