Embark on an exciting educational journey! AACPS Kindergarten Registration for the 2024-2025 school year is now open, offering a gateway to a world of learning and growth. For those eager to provide their young ones with a strong academic foundation, this is the perfect opportunity to secure a spot in one of AACPS’s esteemed kindergarten programs. With a dedicated team of educators and a curriculum designed to nurture curiosity and foster a love for learning, AACPS promises an exceptional educational experience for all its students.
The registration process is straightforward and accessible, ensuring a smooth transition for families and children. By visiting the AACPS website, parents can find detailed information about eligibility requirements, enrollment deadlines, and the necessary documentation. The online registration system allows for a quick and convenient application process, eliminating the need for in-person visits. Additionally, AACPS offers assistance and support throughout the enrollment process, ensuring that all families have access to the resources they need to make informed choices about their child’s education.
Don’t miss this chance to give your child the best start to their academic journey. By registering early, you can secure a spot in the program of your choice and ensure a seamless transition into the AACPS community. Invest in your child’s future and provide them with the foundation they need to thrive in school and beyond. Embark on this educational adventure today and unlock a world of possibilities for your young learner.
Registration Process for AACPS Kindergarten (2024-2025)
Kindergarten Registration Timeline
The Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) is currently accepting registrations for the 2024-2025 kindergarten class. The registration process will take place in two phases:
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Phase 1: Online registration for current AACPS Pre-K students and siblings of current AACPS students will open on [Date] and close on [Date].
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Phase 2: Online registration for all other students will open on [Date] and close on [Date].
Kindergarten Registration Eligibility
To be eligible for kindergarten in AACPS, children must be five years old on or before September 1, 2024. Children who are not yet five years old on September 1, 2024, may be eligible for kindergarten if they meet the following criteria:
Kindergarten Readiness Guidelines and Expectations
Kindergarten is a crucial milestone in a child’s educational journey. To ensure a successful start, the following guidelines and expectations provide a comprehensive framework for kindergarten readiness.
Social and Emotional Development
Kindergarteners should demonstrate:
- Self-regulation skills (e.g., managing emotions, following directions)
- Social awareness (e.g., recognizing and responding to social cues)
- Cooperation and teamwork
Physical Development
Kindergarteners should have:
- Gross motor skills (e.g., running, jumping, balancing)
- Fine motor skills (e.g., holding a pencil, manipulating objects)
- Hand-eye coordination
Cognitive and Language Development
Kindergarteners should be able to:
- Recognize and identify letters and sounds
- Count to 20 or higher
- Follow simple instructions
- Understand basic concepts (e.g., colors, shapes, numbers)
- Communicate effectively in both English and Spanish (for dual-language learners)
Practical Skills
Kindergarteners should be able to:
- Use a bathroom independently
- dress and undress themselves
- Use basic self-care skills (e.g., brushing teeth, washing hands)
- Pack and unpack their belongings
Behavioral Expectations
Kindergarteners are expected to:
- Follow classroom rules and routines
- Respect others and their property
- Take turns and share resources
- Listen attentively and participate in discussions
- Demonstrate kindness and empathy
Availability of Kindergarten Programs and Locations
Kindergarten registration for 2024-2025 will open on [date] for Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS). AACPS offers a comprehensive kindergarten program that prepares young learners for success in elementary school and beyond.
AACPS Kindergarten Programs
AACPS offers two types of kindergarten programs: full-day and half-day.
- Full-day kindergarten: This program is available at all AACPS elementary schools and provides five hours of instruction per day, Monday through Friday.
- Half-day kindergarten: This program is available at select AACPS elementary schools and provides two hours and 30 minutes of instruction per day, either in the morning or afternoon.
Locations
Kindergarten programs are offered at all 75 AACPS elementary schools. Parents can choose the school that is most convenient for their family.
To find the kindergarten program that is right for your child, visit the AACPS website or contact your local elementary school.
Kindergarten Locations and Programs Table
| School Name | Program Type |
|---|---|
| Annapolis Elementary School | Full-day and half-day |
| Broadneck Elementary School | Full-day only |
| Crofton Elementary School | Full-day and half-day |
| Davidsonville Elementary School | Full-day and half-day |
| George Fox Elementary School | Full-day only |
Importance of Early Registration
Registering your child for kindergarten early has several advantages. First, it allows the school to plan for the upcoming school year, such as hiring teachers and securing class space. Second, it ensures that you receive important updates and information from the school, including details about curriculum, transportation, supplies, and events.
Immunization Records
Prior to starting kindergarten, all children in Maryland are required to submit up-to-date immunization records. These records must be on an official form provided by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Acceptable Immunizations
The following immunizations are required for kindergarten students:
| Immunization | Doses |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) | 5 |
| Polio | 4 |
| Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) | 2 |
| Hepatitis B | 3 |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | 2 |
Medical and Religious Exemptions
In certain circumstances, medical or religious exemptions may be granted for some or all of these immunizations. Parents must submit a signed exemption form from a healthcare provider or religious leader in order to be considered for an exemption.
Online Registration Platform
The AACPS kindergarten registration platform for the 2024-2025 school year will open on January 3, 2024. Parents and guardians can access the platform at [registration website address] to register their children for kindergarten. The platform will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Support Resources
To assist parents and guardians with the registration process, the following support resources will be available:
Registration Hotline
Parents and guardians can call the registration hotline at [hotline phone number] for assistance with registration, documentation requirements, or any other questions they may have regarding the registration process.
Online Help Center
The online help center at [help center website address] provides comprehensive resources, including tutorials, frequently asked questions, and step-by-step instructions for completing the registration process.
In-Person Registration Events
AACPS will host in-person registration events at various locations throughout the county. Dates, times, and locations of these events will be announced on the AACPS website.
Translation Services
Registration materials and support resources will be available in multiple languages. Parents and guardians who require translation assistance can contact the registration hotline or visit an in-person registration event.
Documentation Requirements
Parents and guardians will need to provide the following documentation when registering their child for kindergarten:
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Original or certified copy |
| Proof of Residency | Current utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement |
| Immunization Record | Current record of immunizations |
Transition to Kindergarten from Preschool
Preschool experiences can significantly prepare children for kindergarten. Enrolling in a quality preschool program fosters social skills, encourages cognitive development, and enhances language abilities. Children in preschool learn to interact with peers, follow instructions, and problem-solve. These skills lay the foundation for success in the structured environment of kindergarten.
Transition to Kindergarten from Home Learning
While home learning can provide a nurturing and individualized educational experience, it may not offer the same level of social and developmental opportunities as preschool. Parents who homeschool their children can supplement home learning with playgroups, community classes, or neighborhood activities to facilitate socialization and interaction with peers.
Preparing for Kindergarten Success
Regardless of their early learning experiences, children can benefit from additional preparation for kindergarten registration. Here are six essential tips to ensure a smooth transition:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Develop Language Skills | Encourage children to talk and ask questions. Read books aloud, sing songs, and engage in storytelling. |
| Foster Independence | Teach children to dress themselves, use the bathroom, and eat independently. These self-help skills build confidence and foster responsibility. |
| Promote Social Skills | Encourage children to interact with peers, share toys, and resolve conflicts peacefully. |
| Introduce Kindergarten Concepts | Introduce basic numbers, letters, shapes, and colors through play and games. |
| Practice Fine Motor Skills | Engage children in activities that develop fine motor coordination, such as drawing, cutting, and building with blocks. |
| Create a Positive Attitude | Talk to children about kindergarten in a positive and exciting way. Make them feel confident and eager to learn. |
Dates and Deadlines for Kindergarten Registration
Kindergarten registration for the 2024-2025 school year will open on January 4, 2024, and close on March 31, 2024. Parents and guardians are encouraged to register their children as soon as possible to secure their child’s spot in kindergarten.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Prior to registering, parents and guardians must gather the following required documents:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Parent/guardian identification
- Proof of residency
- Immunization records
Step 2: Register Online or In-Person
Parents and guardians can register their children for kindergarten either online or in-person. To register online, visit the AACPS website at www.aacps.org. To register in-person, visit your child’s designated elementary school.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
After completing the registration form, parents and guardians must submit the required documents to the school. This can be done by mail, in-person, or online if available.
Step 4: Kindergarten Screening
After registering, children will be scheduled for a kindergarten screening. The screening will assess the child’s developmental readiness for kindergarten.
Step 5: Notification of Enrollment
Parents and guardians will be notified of their child’s enrollment status by mail in July 2024. If a child is not offered a spot in kindergarten, they will be placed on a waiting list.
Step 6: Kindergarten Orientation
Before the start of the school year, parents and guardians will attend a kindergarten orientation. The orientation will provide information about the kindergarten program and expectations.
Step 7: Kindergarten Start Date
The first day of kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year will be August 27, 2024. Parents and guardians should contact their child’s school for specific start times and drop-off procedures.
Special Registration Considerations for Students with Disabilities
AACPS welcomes and supports the enrollment of students with disabilities in all programs and services. Special registration considerations are in place to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support and services they need to succeed.
Disability Determination
The registration process for students with disabilities begins with a disability determination. This determination is made by the AACPS Office of Student Services based on the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other relevant documentation.
Early Childhood Screening
Early childhood screening is available for children ages 3 and 4 to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Parents may request a screening through their local elementary school or by contacting the AACPS Office of Student Services.
In-Person Registration
In-person registration is available for parents of students with disabilities who require additional support. Parents can schedule an appointment with their local elementary school to complete the registration process.
Extended Registration Deadline
The registration deadline for students with disabilities may be extended to ensure that they have adequate time to complete the registration process.
Accessibility
AACPS provides accessibility features such as interpreters, assistive technology, and accessible registration materials to support the enrollment of students with disabilities.
Transition Support
AACPS provides transition support to help students with disabilities successfully move from preschool to kindergarten and beyond.
Additional Support
Parents of students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the AACPS Office of Student Services or their local elementary school to obtain additional support with the registration process.
Important Dates
Registration for students with disabilities for the 2024-2025 school year will open in [Insert Date]. The following table provides important dates for registration:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Childhood Screening | [Insert Date] |
| Registration Opens | [Insert Date] |
| Registration Deadline | [Insert Date] |
School Zone Lookup
Parents can determine their child’s school zone by entering their address into the [School Zone Lookup Tool](https://aacps.org/boundary-lookup). This tool will provide the name and address of the elementary school that serves their neighborhood.
Bus Transportation Information
9. Types of Transportation and Eligibility
AACPS provides various types of transportation services for eligible students, including:
| Type of Transportation | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Regular Bus Service | Students who live within the boundary of their assigned school |
| Special Needs Transportation | Students with disabilities who require specialized transportation |
| Early Arrival/Late Dismissal Transportation | Students who participate in before- or after-school programs |
| Activity Buses | Students who participate in extracurricular activities |
To determine if your child is eligible for bus transportation, please visit the AACPS [Transportation Eligibility](https://aacps.org/transportation-eligibility) page.
Outreach and Enrollment Assistance for Underserved Families
Recognizing that all children deserve access to a quality education, AACPS is committed to providing outreach and enrollment assistance to underserved families. The district has implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enroll in kindergarten and receive the support they need to succeed.
Key Outreach and Enrollment Strategies
AACPS employs a multi-faceted approach to outreach and enrollment, including:
- Community Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations and community centers to connect with families and provide information about kindergarten registration.
- Home Visits: Conducting home visits to provide personalized assistance and guidance to families with limited access to technology or transportation.
- Language Accessibility: Offering resources and materials in multiple languages to support families with limited English proficiency.
- Targeted Mailings: Sending informational materials and registration packets to households with children eligible for kindergarten.
- Social Media: Utilizing social media platforms to share information about kindergarten registration and connect with families.
- School-Based Outreach: Hosting kindergarten informational sessions at local elementary schools and conducting outreach activities in school communities.
- Enrollment Assistance Centers: Establishing enrollment assistance centers at convenient locations to provide on-site support and guidance.
- Transportation Assistance: Arranging transportation for families who need assistance getting to enrollment appointments.
- Flexible Enrollment Options: Offering extended enrollment hours and online registration options to accommodate families with varying schedules.
- Community Ambassadors: Training community members to serve as ambassadors, sharing information about kindergarten registration with their networks.
Dedicated Staff and Resources
AACPS has dedicated staff and resources to support outreach and enrollment efforts. The district has established a team of enrollment specialists who work closely with families to ensure a smooth registration process. A dedicated phone line and email address provide additional support to families with questions or concerns.
Point of View on AACPS Kindergarten Registration 2024-2025
As an early childhood educator with over a decade of experience, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every child in our community has access to a high-quality education from the very beginning. I am concerned that the current AACPS kindergarten registration process may be creating barriers for some of our most vulnerable students.
Under the current system, parents are required to provide proof of residency, immunization records, and a birth certificate. While these requirements are intended to ensure that only eligible children are enrolled in kindergarten, they can be challenging for families who are experiencing homelessness, living in transitional housing, or navigating other life circumstances that may make it difficult to obtain these documents. As a result, some children may be denied access to kindergarten, even if they are otherwise eligible.
I believe that we need to find a more equitable and inclusive way to register children for kindergarten. One possible solution would be to eliminate the requirement for proof of residency. This would allow all children to enroll in kindergarten, regardless of their housing status. Another possibility would be to provide more flexibility in the types of documents that can be used to prove residency, such as utility bills or letters from social service agencies.
I urge AACPS to consider these changes and to work with community partners to develop a more equitable kindergarten registration process. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in school, and we need to remove any barriers that may stand in their way.
People Also Ask About AACPS Kindergarten Registration 2024-2025
When does kindergarten registration open for the 2024-2025 school year?
Kindergarten registration for the 2024-2025 school year opens on January 10, 2024.
What documents are required to register my child for kindergarten?
The following documents are required to register your child for kindergarten:
* Proof of residency
* Immunization records
* Birth certificate
Can I register my child for kindergarten if I don’t have all of the required documents?
You should contact your local school to inquire about the specific requirements for your child’s school. Some schools may be able to provide flexibility in the types of documents that can be used to prove residency.
