New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Tuesday that the city will add more than 1,000 new seats to its 3-K program, expanding access across 56 ZIP codes. The expansion, beginning this September, aims to bring the city closer to offering universal early childhood education for three-year-olds.
The expansion will increase 3-K availability for families in five Bronx ZIP codes, six on Staten Island, eight in Brooklyn, 16 in Manhattan, and 21 in Queens. The ZIP codes were selected based on historical enrollment patterns, early application data, and potential provider capacity. Families who have already applied do not need to take action; NYC Public Schools will notify residents as new seats are confirmed, and updates to applications will be accepted until April 24.
“For too long, families were promised universal 3-K but offered seats miles away — forcing them to pay out of pocket for child care or leave the city,” Mamdani remarked. “Today we’re making a new commitment: government can deliver real relief from the affordability crisis. By making 3-K truly universal, we’re building a city where every New Yorker can afford to raise a family.”
New York City Public Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels emphasized the benefits for children’s development. “Expanding access to 3-K means giving more of our youngest New Yorkers the strong start they deserve,” he noted. “Adding seats in communities where demand is growing helps more families access high-quality early childhood education that supports children’s learning, development and long-term success.”
The expansion follows the initial rollout of the 2-K program, which did not include Staten Island. Some residents expressed concern over their borough’s exclusion, although the administration clarified that Staten Island is included in the next phase of the 2-K rollout.
Rebecca Bailin, Executive Director of New Yorkers United for Child Care, highlighted the program’s economic impact. “NYC’s 3-K for All has saved parents more than $20,000 a year and helped make New York City a place where working- and middle-class families can afford to raise their children,” she stated.
