Parents Reminded to Enroll Children in Kindergarten Early

In preparation for the start of the 2018-19 public school year on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, the Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE) reminds parents to plan ahead and enroll their children in kindergarten early. Kindergarten is mandatory in the State of Hawai‘i.

Children must be 5 years old on or before July 31 to enter kindergarten in the upcoming school year. Children who turn 5 on August 1 or later must enroll in the following school year. Photo Credit: Department of Education

Children must be five years old on or before Tuesday, July 31, 2018, to enter kindergarten in the upcoming school year. For example, children who are five years old by Tuesday, July 31, 2018, may enroll for the 2018-19 school year. Children who turn five on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018, or later must enroll in the following school year.

“Kindergarten gives our keiki a solid start towards becoming engaged learners throughout their school years and lives ahead,” said Superintendent Christina Kishimoto. “We want our parents to be involved, become familiar with enrollment requirements and sign up early.”

The main kindergarten registration period begins Thursday through Friday, Feb. 1 through 16, 2018, to allow schools the time to process registration forms before the Thursday, March 1, 2018 geographic exception deadline. Kindergarten registration will continue throughout the school year as needed.
Parents whose children attended kindergarten outside of Hawai‘i or at a private school in the 2016-17 school year can discuss enrollment options with their home school. With many possible placement scenarios, the final decision for a child’s placement will be based on the principal’s discussions with parents and the appropriate teaching staff.

For more information about enrolling in kindergarten in the State of Hawai‘i, visit the webpage on kindergarten and Frequently Asked Questions. Parents should also visit the Enrolling in School page to be sure they have the necessary documents to enroll their child, including birth certificate, tuberculosis clearance, a completed student health record and proof of current address.

Parents of children younger than the mandatory kindergarten age have several educational options, such as pre-school at a private provider or pre-kindergarten classes available at 19 select schools statewide. Visit the Early Learning webpage for more details on pre-kindergarten programs.