Dear Parents/Guardians:
The district has put together frequently asked questions to address a number of parents’ most common questions and/or concerns to ensure you have the latest information.
1. What is the purpose of the June orientation for incoming kindergarten parents and students?
The purpose of the June orientation is twofold. First, students will have approximately 45 minutes to spend in a kindergarten classroom to become familiar with the school and to do some short, fun activities. These activities give teachers an opportunity to briefly assess kindergarten readiness skills, including the children’s ability to follow directions and whether they interact appropriately with other children. Second, while the children visit the classroom, parents are given valuable information about our kindergarten program as well as information about procedures specific to the school, such as drop-off and pick-up instructions and lunch procedures. Parents also have the opportunity to ask questions about any concerns they may have for their incoming kindergartener.
2. Will scavenger hunts occur at each elementary school for incoming kindergarten students before the 2014-2015 school year begins?
Every attempt will be made to host scavenger hunts for incoming kindergarten students prior to the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year, and we certainly anticipate being able to offer this at all our elementary schools.
3. Will my child(ren) be guaranteed a place in the school nearest my home?
The district will make every effort to place students in their “neighborhood” schools; however, due to possible over-enrollment, the district cannot guarantee at which district school (Berkeley, Brookside, George, Washington) your child will be placed.
4. At this time, what do we anticipate as the average kindergarten class size?
We currently anticipate the average kindergarten class size to be approximately 21 students; however, this is an approximation and can change slightly depending on enrollment trends.
5. Are kindergartners offered world languages?
Kindergarten students are provided with exposure to world cultures and languages through a number of different resources. More formalized instruction in world languages begins in Grade 1 and continues through Grade 12.
6. How is the district’s Gifted & Talented programming configured at the elementary school level?
Our Gifted and Talented (G&T) program functions in two ways. In grades K-3, the district’s G&T teacher spends time in class with students and their classroom teacher. Lessons are designed so students have an opportunity to work on critical thinking skills. For students in grades 4-5, the district offers a pull-out class once a week for approximately 90 minutes. Students work collaboratively on units that encompass all disciplines, including science, social studies, math, and language arts. Students are identified at the end of grades 3 and 4 for inclusion in the pull-out program.
7. Does the district provide before- or after-school care?
The YWCA of Bergen County operates both before- and after-school programs for the district’s K-6 students. For more information, visit their website at www.ywcabergencounty.org, call 201-444-5600, ext. 312 or 315 or email or .
Thank you! We look forward to welcoming your child into our kindergarten program.
Rev. October 2013