Universal Pre-Kindergarten will return to the main campus of the Sidney Central School District for the 2025-26 school year. 

 

Sidney CSD has partnered with the Cullman Child Development Center for the past four years for UPK. Students who have been enrolled at Cullman for UPK were Sidney students. 

 

However, the district feels bringing the program back to the main campus is important to embrace a true UPK-12 school. It's integral to achieve the district's mission and vision and have a consistent continuum of services and supports, including direct family engagement and communication that grows over the course of a students' educational journey, 

 

"I am deeply grateful to the Cullman Center for their invaluable support over the past four years in helping nurture our youngest learners," Sidney UPK-2 Principal Sean Wood said. "As we transition the Pre-K program back to our building, I am excited for the opportunity to establish a true UPK-12 continuum of support under one roof, fostering positive relationships and meaningful transitions that align with our commitment to creating a great place to learn, grow, and achieve academic excellence."

 

Having UPK back on campus is important for the growth of students, Sidney Superintendent Eben Bullock said. At the same time, he said the partnership with Cullman was integral in allowing the district to get back to hosting the UPK program.

 

"On behalf of the Sidney Central School District, I want to sincerely thank the Cullman Center for its invaluable partnership over the past four years," Bullock said. "Together, we have provided high-quality, student-centered, and authentic learning experiences to our UPK students. As we look ahead, we are excited to take the UPK program back in-house for the 2025-26 school year, continuing to offer a high quality learning experience."

 

The Cullman Center will look to expand its childcare programs following this school year. 

 

“The Cullman Center has thoroughly enjoyed our UPK partnership with Sidney Central School,” Cullman Director Amy Williams said. “We have been very proud to support the development of the youngest Sidney School students for the past four years, and now we are looking forward to expanding our childcare programs, so that we can meet the blossoming need for quality early childcare in the Tri-County area. “

 

Though UPK returns to the Sidney campus, the partnership between the Cullman Center and district won't end as it provides valuable care for before- and after-school activities, as well as for those who are not school age.

 

"Sidney CSD’s partnership with the Cullman Center has and will continue to be key to providing families and students with a nurturing and supportive environment," Sidney CSD Assistant Superintendent Kerrie Johnston said.