Frequently asked questions

Kids might only wonder where the bathroom will be, but you, as a parent, have a lot more questions as you prepare a child for kindergarten. We have collected those questions here, with links to information whenever possible.

1. What is the minimum age for admittance to kindergarten?

A child shall be admitted to a kindergarten maintained by the school district at the beginning of a school year, or at a later time in the same year if the child will have his or her fifth birthday on or before September 1.

2. How long is a kindergarten school day?

By statute, the maximum school day in kindergarten is 4 hours. An exception to this statute allows schools that have adopted an early primary program (extended-day kindergarten) to exceed 4 hours.

3. Are there immunization requirements for entry?

The law requires each child to have a health examination report for the entry. This report consists of a health examination and an up-to-date immunization record.

4. How should I prepare my child for kindergarten assessments?

Different school districts might require different assessments. A teacher or counselor might spend 20 minutes or more with your child, doing activities on paper, interacting, and completing various tasks, to assess a range of academic, social, and motor skills.

5. Which documents are required to enroll?

Usually, the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, proof of address, and guardianship papers (if applicable) are needed to enroll in kindergarten. If you are missing any of these documents or are unsure about any of them, use the following resources to get your paperwork in order BEFORE the kindergarten registration period

6. What is “March into Kindergarten?”

“March into Kindergarten” is a coalition of caring people, organizations, and school districts with the goals that children in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, will be registered, ready, and in class every day of kindergarten.