Overview
- The city opened a jingle contest Friday with Cardi B as judge, taking 15- or 30-second entries through April 17 before she names five finalists for a public vote.
- 2-K is a new free childcare program for two-year-olds set to start in September with 2,000 seats across Fordham, Washington Heights, Canarsie, and Southeast Queens.
- Families can apply June 2 to June 26, placement notices come in August, and the school year begins in September.
- City officials present 2-K as a step toward universal childcare that is open regardless of ZIP code, income, or immigration status.
- Rolling Stone noted the launch areas align with Cardi B’s Bronx and Caribbean ties, signaling an outreach strategy built to meet families where they are.