Kindergarten Screening Frequently Asked Questions
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What is kindergarten screening?
Kindergarten screening is an evaluation of various skills to see where your child is developmentally. Children have the opportunity to interact with the kindergarten staff and play games that assess their fine and gross motor skills, as well as their language and concept skills. Once the screening is complete, a staff member will review the results with you and answer your questions.
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Why is kindergarten screening important?
Screening information is used to determine any additional classroom support your child may need. Principals also use this information when determining class lists.
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What do I need to bring to my child’s kindergarten screening?
- Your child’s immunization record
- Your child’s birth certificate
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement with your name and physical address)
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What are the age requirements to be eligible for kindergarten?
Children must be 5 years old on or before July 31, 2023, to attend kindergarten in the 2023-24 school year. If your child is too young, please watch for information at this time next year to register your child for a screening.
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How long does screening last?
Plan on the screening lasting between 1-2 hours.
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What if my child doesn’t pass the screening?
Kindergarten screening isn’t a pass/fail test. It is simply about finding out where your child is currently so the District can meet their needs and help them move forward once school starts.
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What if my child doesn’t have all their immunizations yet?
That’s fine, provided they have them before school starts or you have an exemption on file.
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Is my child ready for kindergarten?
You know your child best. Children learn and develop (academically, socially and physically) at different paces. Kindergarten screening and kindergarten summer school are great resources to help parents decide if their child is ready for kindergarten. Some parents wait to start their child in kindergarten until the next academic year to ensure an easier transition. No matter when your child starts kindergarten, teachers are going to teach your child where they are and take them to the next step.
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What if I cannot make it to the screening date?
Contact the school where your child will attend and we will help you
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Will there be a Kindergarten Preview Day this year?
In the past, the District has held a preview day for parents and children to learn more about kindergarten. We have omitted this event to reduce the amount of days we ask parents to take off of work. We will have a special kindergarten open house before school starts. Details will be provided at screening.
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What can I do to help prepare my child for kindergarten?
Visit www.ozarktigers.org/kindergarten for resources to help your child make the best transition to kindergarten.
