On June 8, 2012, Senator John A. DeFrancisco visited Mrs. DeStefano's universal pre-kindergarten class at Solvay Elementary School. For the first time this year, the school district was able to operate its universal pre-k program within the elementary school building.  Senator DeFrancisco observed classroom activities, and even joined in using the Smart Board.  Solvay's universal pre-kindergarten program is funded by a special grant from the New York State Education Department.