Gearing Up For Kindergarten

If you have a child in prekindergarten, you probably have kindergarten on the brain. Whether you’re planning on sticking with your neighborhood school, applying to a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools magnet program, enrolling in a private school or are still undecided, the year before kindergarten is a big one with lots to do along the way. Check out this timeline to help you prepare.

- Julia Pelly

ONE YEAR AWAY

One year out from kindergarten, the most important task you have as a parent is to decide where you want your child to attend school. Choices include your neighborhood public school or a magnet school, a public charter school, or private school. A good first step in the process is to make a list of what you’re looking for in a school says Allycia Brown, director of admissions for early education and the lower school at Charlotte Christian.

“There are so many school choices in Charlotte,” Brown says. “By making a list of what you’re looking for, you can begin to narrow down your search and avoid feeling overwhelmed.”

After narrowing down the list of schools that include your must-have characteristics, the next good step is to visit each school that’s of interest. Most schools have designated open houses for new families, and also welcome guests to tour the school throughout the year.

When touring schools, a few things to consider outside of the curriculum and school environment are transportation and beforeand after-school care options, as well as school hours. While private and charter schools set their own bell schedules and have distinct offerings for before- and after-school care, area public schools have bell schedules built around transportation. Some schools start as early as 7:45 a.m. or as late as 9 a.m. and end as early as 2:45 p.m. or as late as 4 p.m. These bell times are something to consider if you’re a working parent or expect your child to participate in extracurricular activities.