Kindergarten

Since your child was born, you've been preparing them for the day they would enter school. They have had years of teaching from the most influential teacher they will ever have...you. As you help them prepare to enter the world of formal education, we are here to guide you, support you and link arms with you on your journey into kindergarten.

To qualify for kindergarten, children must turn 5 on or before July 31.

If you are unsure of your student's school district, you can search for your address in the Buchanan County GIS system.

Kindergarten Readiness

Prepare your child for kindergarten success with this comprehensive checklist covering key areas of development. Engage with your child on these activities to ensure they enter kindergarten confident and prepared for the exciting learning journey ahead.

Language/Literacy

Understands book features
Tells about a story
Answers questions about a book (who, what, where)
Recognizes alphabet letters

Physical Development

Uses proper pencil grip
Uses the bathroom independently
Shows general coordination
Writes own name

Approaches to Learning

Stays focused
Follows two-step directions
Shows curiosity for learning
Shows eagerness for learning
Follows class rules/routines

General Knowledge

Counts 20 objects
Recognizes numbers 1-10
Recognizes primary shapes (triangle, rectangle, circle, square)

Formative Items

Verbalizes rhyming words
Verbalizes letter sounds
Verbalizes letter names

Social Emotional Development

Expresses caring for others
Works/plays cooperatively
Participates in large group
Verbalizes needs & wants
Handles frustration well

United Way KinderClub

United Way KinderClub is a program designed to help children who will be in kindergarten next school year and their parent or primary caregiver. Sessions will cover important school readiness skills and provide you with information and resources to help you and your child feel ready for school. Sessions will be held in all St. Joseph School District elementary schools and led by St. Joseph School District staff.

Register Online
Informational Flyer and Registration Form (English)
Informational Flyer and Registration Form (Spanish)
Informational Flyer and Registration Form (Chuukese)

Kindergarten Parent Night

Kindergarten Parent Night
Hosted at each SJSD elementary school

April 4, 2024 at 5pm- All students with last name beginning with A-L
April 9, 2024 at 5pm - All students with last name beginning M-Z

Meet teachers, tour the building, and sign up for summer school!

Get a jumpstart on registering for the school year by bringing:
Proof of residency (utility bill or lease agreement with address)
Immunization records
Birth certificate
Photo ID for data access account

Sign up for an Enrollment Reminder

Do you have a kindergarten enrolling in school for the 2024-25 school year? Click the link below and fill out the form. When enrollment opens for the district this summer we will let you know!

Developmental Stages

Math

Writing

Art