Early Education
Early Childhood Education:
Universal Pre-K and 3-year-old Programs
Universal Pre-K
What is Universal Pre-K? Universal Pre-K is a movement to provide quality preschooling to all 4 year olds regardless of income. It is a state funded program as opposed to a federally funded program like Head Start. The UPK program was created in response to parents who are looking for programs that are not only safe, but will nurture and help their preschoolers develop traits needed for kindergarten.
The Woodson School of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany operates at three locations including the Thomas O’Brien School of Science and Technology (TOAST), Pine Hills Elementary, and the Club’s Delaware Avenue Unit.
Founded in 1995, the Woodson School is named for Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950), an educator who is remembered as the “Father of African American History.” The cornerstone of the Woodson School is the basic proposition that education must do more than impart information. It must, in the words of Dr. Woodson, “provide individuals with the skill to do for themselves.”
In 2004 and 2005, The Woodson School, received a five star rating from the Child Care Programs of Excellence. The rating program is administered by Cornell University, Department of Policy Analysis and Management, and the NYS Child Care Coordinating Council.
3-Year-Old Program
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Albany is excited to announce the opening of a Three-year Old Program. The “Zoop-a-Zoop Troop”!
Here at the Club our three year olds learn socialization skills and basics to get 
them off and ready for Pre-K. The Three-year-old program is designed for the first time preschooler. Although a three-year-old is beginning to crave some independence from adults they still need lots of reassurance, support and an environment that emanates safety. Three-year olds want to be in the same space with children their age.
Our program is a full day (8-3) with an option to remain in our after-school program from 3 to 6pm. Our three year olds learn through exploration and experimenting. Hands on is our motto…fingerpainting, playdough, shaving cream writing and creating our own art masterpieces is part of our daily routine.
Miss Elyse Nepa Has a background in the field of early childhood, with a bachelor degree and a minor in art…she loves creating!
Tuition is based on a sliding scale it ranges from $100.00 weekly. DSS and other forms of support are welcomed. Please stop by and visit, many spots are still available.
To learn more about the Woodson School Universal Pre-K program and 3-Year-Old Program, please contact Gina Slyer at 518-462-5528 or e- mail slyerg@bgcalbany.com.
