Families of children born in 2022 or 2023 have until February 27 to apply to Pre-K and 3-K programs for September 2026. Check out AFC's webinar and guides to learn how to apply to these programs, and other early childhood program options for NYC children from birth to age five.
Advocates for Children of New York has a singular vision: an equitable and inclusive school system where all students receive the education they need to maximize their potential as adults.
We fight for families
For more than 50 years, we have fought beside NYC families from under-resourced communities through a unique combination of services, all focused on protecting education rights and eliminating barriers to success so all students can thrive.
When Julian's family first came to AFC, their son had been incorrectly labeled as speech and language impaired with a borderline IQ, although private testing indicated that he was functioning at a much higher level.
When three-year-old Julian exhibited difficulty understanding language and expressing himself, his mother sought a special education evaluation. Although the DOE initially approved Julian to receive speech therapy, then they called to say he was no longer be eligible.
Gabriel, a kindergarten student with speech delays, needed a bilingual class and speech therapy but the DOE wasn't responding to his mother's pleas for help.
