Get Ready for Kindergarten: Checklist for Success

Preparing your child for kindergarten is an exciting journey, and at Tempe Elementary Schools, we're here to support you every step of the way.

This checklist for success will help you navigate everything from enrollment and free kinder screening to resources available to support your child and family in our district. Let's embark on this journey together to ensure your child's successful transition to kindergarten and beyond!

EXPLORE: What options does Tempe Elementary provide my child?

Tempe Elementary Schools offers a range of school environments, learning styles, and programs to cater to the diverse needs of our community. From traditional and accelerated curriculum options at Ward Traditional Academy, to a Montessori approach at Meyer Montessori, and a K-8 environment at Cecil Shamley School, you have several options to consider beyond a standard kindergarten program. 

To help you decide the best fit for your child, we encourage you to tour one or more of our schools.

Request a tour at any of our school sites

ENROLL: How and when can I enroll my child in Kindergarten?

Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is NOW OPEN at all Tempe Elementary Schools. You can enroll at ANY in just three easy steps:

1. Complete enrollment form either online or print it off to complete at home.

2. Gather required documents: Child's certified birth certificate, immunization records, legitimate proof of current address (such as mortgage, rental or lease agreement, utility bill, phone/cable bill, bank statement, etc.) 

3. Bring the completed enrollment packet (if printed) and documents to any of our school offices during normal school office hours.

PLAN: What are the age requirements for kindergarten? Are there any exceptions?

Tempe Elementary School’s kindergarten programs accept children who will be five years old by August 31, 2025. Children turning five between September 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025 are invited to take a FREE Early Entrance Assessment to enroll with a passing score. This option allows families to enroll their child early if they believe they are ready socially, emotionally, and academically. Learn more about Early Entrance Assessments.

LEARN: What resources are available in the district to support my child and family?

Tempe Elementary Schools is committed to providing a nurturing environment for all our students. Our schools are equipped with social workers and nurses, along with dedicated and knowledgeable teachers, ensuring that your child receives the best care possible. Other resources include free breakfast and lunch for ALL students, before and afterschool care, and bus transportation.

We also understand the importance of early education even before kindergarten, which is why we offer various preschool programs throughout the District. Our Kindergarten Prep Full Day Preschool, available at three schools, is specifically designed to focus on kindergarten readiness. Additionally, our Thrive to Five Family Resource Center, housed at Thew Elementary, provides valuable support to families with children ages birth to five years old through free classes and access to community resources.

As the school year progresses, you may find that your child qualifies for additional programs. Tempe Elementary Schools provides services for gifted students through our PACE program and extra support through our special education programs. 

PREPARE: I enrolled my child! What should I do next?

Now that your future kindergartener is enrolled, expect direct communication from your selected school with next steps in July. Teachers will be thrilled to welcome you and your child for the first day of school on Wednesday, July 23, 2025!

In the meantime, there are skills and strategies you can practice with your child to help them succeed when school begins:

• Foster Independence: Encourage your child to practice tasks such as dressing themselves, opening lunch packages, and using the restroom independently.

• Practice Motor Skills: Engage in activities like stringing beads, picking up Cheerios, coloring within lines, and using scissors.

• Develop Social Skills: Help your child identify big emotions, make new friends, and use coping skills.

• Introduce Academic Concepts: Teach and practice concepts like counting, comparative words (longer/shorter, big/bigger/biggest), color and shape identification, and letter recognition and sounds.

• Encourage Listening Skills: Ask your child to follow 2-3 step directions to enhance their listening skills.

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As you prepare your child for kindergarten, remember that you are not alone. Tempe Elementary Schools is dedicated to supporting you and your child every step of the way. By working together, we can create a strong foundation for your child's future academic success. Learn more about kindergarten at Tempe Elementary Schools.