Kindergarten Readiness
Welcome to Hamilton County Schools Kindergarten!
Welcome to pre‐registration for kindergarten. We look forward to forming a close relationship with you in order that your child will enjoy school and discover the joy of learning. In Hamilton County we believe that, “good beginnings never end.”
Tennessee State law requires that a child entering kindergarten shall be no less than five years of age on or before September 30. A child entering first grade shall be no less than six years of age on or before September 30. Kindergarten is required prior to first grade enrollment.
Each of the following items must be provided in order for school registration to be completed:
- state certified copy of the child’s birth certificate (not mother’s copy)
- child’s social security number
- immunization record
- physical examination record
The birth certificate is needed at the time of pre‐registration. The immunization record and physical examination must be a part of your child’s record before school begins in the fall. The Health Department or a personal physician will provide the forms needed for the medical history.
Tennessee State Rules and Regulations mandate that students be developmentally screened for school entry. The purpose of this screening is to serve as a tool for planning an individualized and self‐paced program for each child and to determine if further assessment or diagnostic testing is needed. In Hamilton County, students are screened during the spring or summer prior to the kindergarten year or in the fall of the kindergarten year. Schools will inform parents of the scheduling arrangements for the developmental screening of each student.
In the fall, you will receive a handbook for parents or guardians of kindergarten students explaining the phase‐in period, report card format, skills to be covered, parent involvement tips, and the answers to many more of your questions. The principal and kindergarten teachers at your child’s school are available to answer your questions.
May this coming school year be a great beginning for everyone!