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Early entrance for kindergarten

Kindergarten

 

A child must be 5 years of age as of August 31 of the year of entry to be entitled to enter kindergarten. Research on early entrance to school indicates that few children are ready to enter kindergarten earlier than age 5. It is the philosophy of the Stanwood-Camano School District that there may be a need for rare exceptions to the policy on entrance age.

A child whose 5th birthday falls between September 1 and November 30 may be eligible for kindergarten enrollment if that child is developmentally ready to succeed in the program.

Stanwood-Camano School District staff must assess early entrance candidates’ readiness. Students will be assessed in at least five areas: 

  • Concepts

  • Motor

  • Social development

  • Language

  • Self-help

Readiness criteria as specified by the DIAL (Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning) assessment tool will be used to make recommendations based on the child’s performance. 

The nonrefundable fee for this assessment is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. An exemption can be made for families who are eligible for federal free or reduced meal status.

  • Spring assessments for the 25-26 school year: TBA

  • August assessments for the 25-26 school year TBA

Early entrance testing will be held at The Stanwood-Camano School District Administration and Resource Center, 26920 Pioneer Hwy, Stanwood, WA 98292.

How to apply?

Applications for the 2025-26 school year will open in the spring. 

Please deliver the completed forms and payment to the Stanwood-Camano School District Administration & Resource Center, 26920 Pioneer Hwy., Stanwood

The principal is responsible for a decision on early entrance. Notification of enrollment status will be given within 10 working days following the early entrance assessment. If a child qualifies for early entrance, the teacher and principal will observe the child throughout a six-week trial period. Staff will report to the parent on the child’s adjustment and progress.

If it is determined that early entrance for a particular child is not appropriate after all, the child may be withdrawn from the program after a conference with the parents. The principal will notify the parents of the final decision regarding their child’s eligibility to continue in the kindergarten program.

Questions? Please email teachingandlearning@stanwood.wednet.edu

How to obtain a birth certificate?

The Snohomish Health District’s Vital Records office can provide official copies of birth certificates for anyone born in Washington state from 1907 to the present.