Kindergarten
Starting off strong
Welcome
We’re glad you’re here
Kindergarten is a new and exciting time for everyone involved. Kindergarten also is the foundation for your child’s career in the school system. Full-day kindergarten is offered at every elementary school.
Here’s what you need to know and do to get your child ready to start kindergarten.
Kindergarten begins Tuesday, September 5, 2023
The process
Age requirement
By law, children must be 5 years of age by Aug. 31 to enroll in school for the upcoming year. You can check your child’s skill levels and readiness for kindergarten by downloading the following guide:
- Kindergarten readiness guide
- Guías para estar listos para el kindergarten
- Руководство по подготовке к детскому саду
Entering kindergarten early
A child who turns 5 on Sept. 1 or between Sept. 1 and Oct. 15 may still be eligible to begin kindergarten. They must reside within district boundaries, meet the early entrance requirements and successfully complete the process.
What school your child will attend
Consider whether you’d like your child to attend their neighborhood school or participate in a specialized language-based program. In some cases, this may be the same school.
If you’d like your child to attend their neighborhood school, see step 3.
Language programs
If you’re interested in having your child participate in one of the language programs, which begin at the kindergarten level and require an application, please choose from the options below.
Project-based program
If you’re interested in having your child participate in a project-based program, which begin at the kindergarten level and require an application, please choose from the option below.
Leading up to the first day
Spring: Evening preschool
Who: All kids ages 4 and 5 who have not started kindergarten are welcome.
What: A program that helps kids make the transition to school. Students are acquainted with their new surroundings, meet future classmates and teachers and work on building the knowledge and skills they’ll need at school.
When: The program takes place the spring before students enter kindergarten.
Where: The program is located at different schools across the district. All families who live in the district are welcome to participate, even if they do not live within the boundaries of the school where the evening preschool is located. Transportation is not provided.
Cost: Free.
April – August: Visitation
After you have registered your child, please visit their school’s website to find out about visitations.
What to expect
Kindergarten Jump Start
Who: Incoming kindergarteners.
What: A free program where students participate in a variety of math, literacy and hands-on activities; learn school routines; and become familiar with their new surroundings.
When: A few weeks before the school year begins.
Where: All VPS elementary schools.
Why: Data shows that students who attend Jump Start are better prepared for kindergarten than children who do not participate. They also gain confidence, leadership skills and enthusiasm for school. Don’t miss this opportunity to give your child a successful transition to kindergarten!