Tips to Help With the Kindergarten Search - SchoolBook WNYC On school closings and open kindergarten slots WNYC's Beth Fertig and Clara Hemphill, senior editor at The New School's Center for New York City Affairs, talked about Thursday's vote on more school closings and the start of the elementary school selection process on The Brian Lehrer Show on Wednesday. Ms. Fertig said she expects the vote by the Panel for Educational Policy at Brooklyn Technical High School to be packed and lengthy. Hundreds of people will get their chance to speak before the panel members cast their votes, most likely in favor of the city's plan. A mother called to say the search for a kindergarten slot was difficult and "feels like a big gamble." Ms. Hemphill said the city has increased the number of kindergarten seats this year so there should be fewer families on waiting lists, but overcrowding remains a big issue. You can check out an Inside Schools video about the kindergarten admissions process here.