Mill Creek Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Everett Public Schools is offering Transitional Kindergarten for children who are not currently in an early learning program and are scheduled to enter kindergarten in the fall of 2020. The program will focus on basic academic, social and self-help skills to jumpstart students toward success in school. Skills such as standing in line, taking turns and getting used to the routines of the school day, which can sometimes be a stumbling block for early learners, will be emphasized.

 Students will be screened in early January and may qualify based on need. The Transitional Kindergarten classrooms will be located at several of the elementary schools in the district; sites will be determined based on enrollment. The anticipated start date is January 28, 2020. Transitional Kindergarten will run through the last day of school, which is currently June 15, 2020.

To be eligible for screening, children must:

• be 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2020

• live within the boundaries of Everett Public Schools

• not be currently enrolled in an early learning program

• demonstrate academic and/or social-emotional needs

The screening is an assessment used to determine a child's developmental strengths and needs. During the appointment, children may draw, count, name colors, jump and will have fun! Following the screening, families will have an opportunity to talk about the results and ask questions about their child's development. At this time, families will also learn whether or not their child qualifies for Transitional Kindergarten.

Everett Public Schools is committed to supporting all students at every level of education. One key strategy is to enhance and invest in early childhood learning opportunities. Transitional Kindergarten can be a positive and critical step in helping children transition into our schools and start their journey to becoming a lifelong learner.

If you are interested and believe your child may qualify for this program, please complete the online form (https://everettsd.org/earlylearning). For questions or assistance, please contact Helen Cooley at 425-385-4088 or the Early Learning Department at 425-385-4024.