Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! We are excited to partner with NYC Kids RISE to offer the Save for College Program, a scholarship and savings initiative designed to make higher education and career training more affordable and achievable for all NYC public school students.

Through this program, eligible students automatically receive a free NYC Scholarship Account with funds invested in a 529 account managed by NYC Kids RISE. There is no cost to participate, and no Social Security Number or tax ID is required. Participation does not impact public benefit eligibility or financial aid qualifications while funds remain in the account. For answers to common questions, please review the Frequently Asked Questions for Families.

Please review the details below regarding program participation and next steps based on your child's grade level:

Important Information for Kindergarten and Newly Enrolled Grades 1–5 Students All kindergarten students and newly enrolled 1st through 5th-grade students are automatically enrolled in the program. If you prefer not to participate, you have until November to opt out. We encourage you to review the Introductory Document, visit  https://nyckidsrise.org/  , or join a virtual workshop at nyckr.org/intro-events  to help you make an informed decision. If you choose to remain enrolled, you will be able to activate and view your child's account starting in January 2027.

Activation Steps for Returning Students in Grades 1–5 If your child attended an NYC public or participating charter school in the 2025–2026 school year and did not opt out, their NYC Scholarship Account is already active and funded. You can complete Building Block 1 by activating your view of the account online to earn an initial $25 reward.

1. Visit https://nyckidsrise.org/get-started/activate-account/  scroll down, click Activate Account, and select Continue to open the Savings Tracker

2. Submit Your Student's Info: Enter your child's home ZIP code, date of birth, and 9-digit Student ID Number (found on report cards or your NYC Schools Account)

3. Create Your Profile: Enter your name and email, set a password, accept the Terms of Use, and click Create User Profile
    

Thank You & Next Steps for Activated Accounts Thank you to all the families who have already activated their NYC Scholarship Accounts! You can continue earning rewards for your child's future by completing the next foundational steps—known as Building Blocks 2 and 3—visit: to open and connect your own college and career savings account .

If you would like guidance or assistance with completing Building Blocks 2 and 3 visit the additional tools and resources section https://nyckidsrise.org/get-started/open-savings-account/ 

Questions or need help? Contact your child's school parent coordinator

CEC 22 currently has vacancies for 2026-2027.   A new Council will be elected in the spring for 2027-2029 School Years.  Learn more on our dedicated webpage for Community Education Councils