New Jersey Universal PreK Program
Making preschool accessible to all.
About the Program
Mount Laurel Schools offers a FREE high-quality, full-day preschool program for three and four-year-olds at both in-district schools and local provider sites. The program is aligned with the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards which addresses all domains of learning. We provide a whole child approach that promotes a child's long-term development and growth.
Mount Laurel Schools offers integrated general education preschool classes for three and four-year-olds and specialized preschool classes for three and four-year-old students with disabilities.
Universal PreK Program Benefits
Children in the free Universal PreK program benefit from:
- A small class size (15 students per one teacher and one aide) so that your child can have plenty of one-on-one time with the teachers
- Classroom teachers with the education, state teacher certification and expertise to teach young children
- A curriculum that helps each child grow, academically and socially
- Selected teaching and learning activities that are best for individual learning abilities
- Regular updates about their progress throughout the school year
- Free youth membership to the Y
Universal PreK Benefits for Families
Families with children in the Universal PreK program receive the following benefits:
Financial Relief
- Free preschool reduces or eliminates childcare costs, which can rival college tuition in New Jersey.
- Families save thousands annually, making it easier for parents to work or pursue education.
Support for Working Parents
- Full-day programs align better with work schedules, reducing the need for additional childcare arrangements.
- Parents can focus on employment or career advancement knowing their children are in safe, enriching environments.
Long-term Economic Gains
- Studies show that every dollar invested in early education yields $4 to $9 in economic benefits, including reduced special education costs and increased lifetime earnings for children.
New Jersey Universal PreK Locations
Find a location that works for your family and schedule a tour!
Commerce Early Learning Center
14000 Commerce Parkway, Suites C-G, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Briggs Early Learning Center
1001 Briggs Road, Suite 275, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Which children are eligible for New Jersey Universal PreK?
Enrollment is based on a lottery system through the Mount Laurel School District Families who reside in the Mount Laurel School District with children ages 3 and 4 who are not yet Kindergarten age are eligible to apply for the lottery. Information can be found on the School District website.
There are no household income requirements.
What are the hours of operation for New Jersey Universal PreK?
Are determined by the School District and may vary from year to year. The 7 hour a day schedule will fall between the hours of 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
Is transportation provided?
Provided by the Mount Laurel School District.
What's the staff to child ratio?
We follow a 1 adult to 10 children ratio for preschool.
How do teachers communicate with parents about child progress?
Daily notes on the curriculum, lessons, and activities are provided through Tadpoles. Families are provided with development progress reports three times per year.
How do you maintain a sanitary environment?
Handwashing occurs upon entering the classroom, before handling food and feeding, after handling body fluids, before and after messy play.
Surfaces in the learning center are washed and sanitized frequently. Rest mats/coats are sanitized weekly and bedding is sent home at the end of each week to be laundered. Carpets and toys are cleaned regularly.
What health and safety precautions are taken?
To learn more about the health and safety precautions we follow at Y Early Learning Centers, please review our Family Manual. We also follow the standards outlined by Praesidium for child protection.
What do families need to provide as part of their child's care?
Families shall provide a seasonably appropriate change of clothing as messy play, food spills, and toileting accidents are still common at this age.
Families provide a standard crib sheet and blanket, change of seasonally appropriate clothing, sippy cup or water bottle, and possibly lunch depending on location.
All items brought from home shall be labeled with the child’s full name.
How often are bathroom trips?
Bathrooms are located in the classrooms with reminders provided every two hours.
When is nap time?
Nap time is for 1 hour after lunch on a cot or rest mat.
How often will my child play outside?
Preschoolers spend time outdoors daily so appropriate outerwear is necessary year round.
What type of shoes should my child wear?
Closed toe and closed heel shoes, such as sneakers, are best for all age groups.
Can my child bring a screen play device?
Screen time is not permitted in preschool rooms.
Can you provide info on the water quality at your facilities?
The Y is dedicated to maintaining the highest water quality standards across our entire organization. We conduct testing to our water supply to ensure safety. Below are lead testing results for our two NJ Universal Pre K sites.