Kindergarten
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- Kindergarten
- Kindergarten Curriculum
- Kindergarten FAQs
- Half-day Kindergarten at Burk Elementary
- Spanish Dual Language Kindergarten at Gilbert Elementary
- Accelerated K¨C6 Option at Highland Park Elementary
- Accelerated K¨C6 Option at Quartz Hill Elementary
- Accelerated K-6 Option at Meridian Elementary
- Accelerated K-6 Option at Playa del Rey Elementary
- Accelerated K-6 Option at Val Vista Lakes Elementary
- ÍøÆØÃÅ Schools
- Kindergarten FAQs
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Kindergarten is an exciting time for families and their young students, with lots of new experiences, and questions. To help our families prepare for Kindergarten we have created a list of Frequently Asked Questions, including lots of helpful information to support your child and your family with the transition to Kindergarten.
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There are a lot of elementary schools how do we select the right one for our child?
GPS is an open enrollment district which means no matter where you live you can apply to enroll at any of our 26 elementary schools.
If you live within GPS district boundaries we suggest that you schedule a tour at your local GPS school. This is a great place to start. You can also schedule tours at any of our elementary schools, including our Dual Language Spanish Academy at Gilbert Elementary, and our three Traditional Academies at Neely, Canyon Rim, and Spectrum, and five
Accelerated campuses Highland Park, Playa del Rey, Meridian, Val Vista Lakes, and Quartz Hill. -
What can we do to support our student¡¯s learning in Kindergarten?
Reviewing work that comes home gives you a great opportunity to talk about what your Kindergartner did in school that day.
We also suggest that you read with your child daily, if possible.
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What are the first couple of weeks like in the Kindergarten classroom?
The first two weeks are an important transition. During this time our Kindergarten teachers support students in learning the routines and rules of the classroom. This is an important foundation, to support learning throughout the rest of the school year.
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What does lunch look like and how can we help prepare our students for lunch?
Lunch differs from campus to campus but in general, helpers are available to support students, and Kindergarten teachers are also on hand to help students if needed. Students sit with their class. Help prepare your students for lunch try practicing eating in busy places, such as the park and set a 30 minute time for them to complete eating lunch.
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What does recess look like?
Our Kindergartners have a lunch recess and a snack recess. During snack recess, the kids will bring their snacks outside and then have the opportunity to play and socialize.
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Is there nap time?
No, we do not have nap time within the Kindergarten schedule, however, our teachers do understand when students are tired and support them with this until they become accustomed to the daily routine.
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What specials do they get to attend? Is there music?
Every Kindergartner has the opportunity to attend 'specials' as part of their school day and week. These include:
- Music
- Art
- Physical Education
- and Computing
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Is there before and after childcare for my Kindergartner?
Yes! Please visit for more information and reach out directly to the school your student will be attending for information.
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How does dismissal work at the end of the school day?
The exact process depends on the campus but in general, our Kindergarten teachers are on hand to supervise and support safe and organized dismissal for our Kindergarteners, whether they are being picked up or taking the school bus. For exact details please reach out to the school.
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Is there homework?
ÍøÆØÃÅwork differs by campus. Some examples are reading logs, STEM projects, and weekly homework packets. Our Kindergarten teachers also encourage parents and families to read daily with their children as this is a great way to support their learning.
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How should we communicate with teachers if we have questions or concerns?
Communication is always going to differ depending on the teacher, examples include e-mails and phone calls. At Meet the Teacher and at the beginning of the school year your child's teacher will share with you preferred methods of communication. Our teachers work together with parents and greatly value communication with our families.
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Does GPS offer half-day Kindergarten?
Yes, GPS offers a half-day Kindergarten option at Burk Elementary. This is a fast-paced compressed program geared toward incoming students with some preschool experience. The full Kindergarten curriculum is taught, and towards the end of the school year, students have the opportunity to attend art and music, and practice lunch skills, to prepare for first-grade.
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What is a Traditional Academy?
At GPS we offer a Traditional education at Neely Traditional Academy, Canyon Rim Elementary, and Spectrum Elementary.
You can learn more by visiting their websites - links below:
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What about students who are ahead and those who fall behind?
There is a lot of support available to support students who would benefit from extra support with their learning and also for students who are ahead and need to be challenged academically. Your Kindergarten teacher will be able to share this information with you, and is there to support every child in their learning.