Frequently Asked Questions about Kindergarten
My child will attend kindergarten next year. What are the steps I need to take to enroll her in school?
It's as as easy as 1-2-3!
1. Confirm your neighborhood school. Most families enroll their children in the neighborhood school. to learn more about your school, go to the school fact page or school-based website.
2. Register for school as soon as possible. Schools are registering children for the 2012-13 school year starting mid-January. Every family should register their incoming kindergarten student before schools close in June. If you are requesting a student transfer through the school choice lottery, we encourage you to also register at your neighborhood school. To register, go to your school with your child's immunization records, proof of age, and two documents showing proof of home address.
3. Visit the school. A great way to learn about your school is by attending Kindergarten Round-Up. At the Round-Up, you will tour the school, meet the principal and teachers, learn about the curriculum and register for school. If you miss Round-Up, contact the schedule to schedule another time to visit. If spring events are not scheduled, ask about upcoming school events that you and your child could attend, such as a book fair.
Is my child old enough for kindergarten?
Your child is eligible for kindergarten if he/she is 5 years old on or before September 1 of the enrolling school year.
How many schools have full-day kindergarten?
In Portland Public Schools, all elementary and K-8 schools offer full-day kindergarten classrooms. Full-day kindergarten allows children more time to learn new concepts through different activities during the day. In addition, children have the time to enjoy lunch, recess, and specials like PE or library. Some full-day kindergarten programs require families to pay for the second half of the day, and some programs do not. For more information, visit the full-day kindergarten webpage.
What if my child was born after September 1 but seems ready for kindergarten?
Oregon law allows early entry to kindergarten for eligible children. If you believe your child should start school early and was born on or before October 1 of the enrolling year, contact the Talented and Gifted Office for an application at 503-916-3358.
My child is too young for kindergarten. Where can I learn about pre-kindergarten programs in the district?
Children are eligible for pre-k programs if they turn 4 years old by September 1 of the enrolling year. For more information about programs and eligibility, visit the PPS Pre-kindergarten page. For information about private preschools and licensed childcare contact the Child Care Resource and Referral of Multnomah County, 503-548-4400 or visit www.ccrr-mc.org.
My child has special educational or physical needs. How can I get help?
The PPS Early Childhood Transition Team helps make the move to kindergarten easier for children eligible for special education services. For help, contact the Special Education Office at 503-916-3152.
I work until 5:30 p.m. Are there after-school programs for my child?
Most PPS elementary schools have on-site before- and after-school care, offered by state-licensed providers. For more information, go to the childcare website or call 503-916-3230. In addition, many schools are SUN Community Schools. SUN develops and provides educational, recreational, and social and health services, including after school enrichment classes.
Can my child take the bus to and from school?
Generally, PPS provides bus transportation for kindergartners living more than a mile from their neighborhood school. In most cases, the district does not provide bus service to children attending a non-neighborhood school unless they are enrolled through special education. PPS does not require most students in grades K-12 to be met at the “home” school bus stop. For information, go to Transportation Department's website. Or call 503-916-6901.
When does school start and end?
Most elementary and K-8 schools begin at 8am or 8:45 and ends at 2:15 or 3.
What is the first day of kindergarten?
For most schools, the first day of kindergarten is typically three days after the start of school for children in higher grades. This allows teachers and families to meet before the first day of kindergarten. Check the district calendar for exact dates
Do you have a question that isn't addressed? We want to hear about it! Contact nhauth@pps.net, and we'll add it to our list.
