Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age for children to enter CPWN?
Children must be 2.9 years old by the end of September of the year they enter the school.

How many years is the CPWN program?
Most children attend CPWN for two or three years. Those who enter as four year-olds generally attend for one or two years. Those with late summer or fall birthdays often attend for three years.

Which ongoing schools do CPWN children attend?
CPWN graduates go on to both independent schools and public schools.  Children from CPWN are at Ethical Culture, Bank Street, Calhoun, Cathedral, Trinity, Claremont Prep, and other independent schools. Our graduates also attend the various public school G&T programs, Hunter, Anderson, and Manhattan School for Children.

What is the length of the school year?
CPWN’s school year begins on the Monday following Labor Day, with an orientation meeting for parents the preceding week. The school year ends in mid-June.

Is there a summer program?
We are not offering a summer program this year.

When should we apply?
Applications should be downloaded and mailed to us in the fall preceding the school year for which you are applying.

What do we need to do to apply?
A completed application consists of:
1) a filled out application and an application fee
2) a parent interview
3) a child’s playgroup
You are invited to attend one of our fall open houses in order to determine whether you think CPWN might be a good match for your family. Dates for the open house will be announced on the website. Once you have decided to apply, you should download, complete, and mail in the application form from our website with the $50 fee.

When will we find out whether you are offering us a spot for our child? When do we need to respond?
CPWN is an ISAAGNY member school, and follows the ISAAGNY notification and reply dates.

Does CPWN offer financial aid? How do we request aid?
Yes. It is our wish that families are able to choose CPWN for their child regardless of their financial situation. We strive to make this possible to the extent that our budget allows. If you are interested in financial aid, please download an application for aid from our website. Return it by the deadline, along with copies of your most recent tax returns. If necessary, the financial aid committee may contact you for further information.

Can I speak with parents of children who are at the school now?
Yes. There will be opportunities to do so at the open house and on the parent tour. All applicants receive invitations. If you would like to be put in touch with a parent who shares a particular situation with you (ie. someone whose child attended the school for three years, a parent of twins, etc.) please contact us and we will be happy to provide you with contacts.