In 2010, the entry-age for kindergarten and first grade changed. The new law requires that kindergarten students turn 5 years of age by Sept. 1 in order to enroll.
The requirements were designed to be phased-in, beginning with the current school year, said a district statement.
For those “young 5s,” children turning 5 between Sept. 2 and Dec. 2, district must establish a transitional kindergarten program to build a bridge between preschool and kindergarten. This program will expand one month each year as follows:
In 2013-2014, prospective kindergarteners must turn 5 between Oct. 2 and Dec. 2; in 2014-2015, between Sept. 2 and Dec. 2.
Transitional Kindergarten is defined as “the first year of a two-year kindergarten program that uses a modified kindergarten curriculum that is age and developmentally appropriate.” The Kindergarten Readiness Act of 2010 put this three-year phase-in program into place beginning this year. The school district began such a program to meet the needs of children who qualify.
If you have a child who qualifies for Transitional Kindergarten, or if you would like more information on it, please contact the principal where your child will attend school.
