What it is:
The Kindergarten Sign Up Campaign is an outreach campaign to encourage and support families to register their child for kindergarten before June 1st.
Why it’s important:
Registering for kindergarten early makes the transition easier by giving families, children and schools the chance to prepare before the first day of school. Families can find out about summer kindergarten events, learn about summer and school-year programs, and get connected to resources. Teachers can meet with families before the first day of school and prepare the room so that every child feels welcome on the first day. Schools can plan for the right amount of staffing and space.
How it works:
The SUN Service System and ELM collaborate across sectors with organizations that serve families with young children. We rely on those trusted partners to communicate the importance of registering for kindergarten by June 1.
Results:
Ninety-one percent of Multnomah County students registered on time in 2015/2016 compared to 80% when the campaign started in 2012. In 2016/2017, the campaign expanded to Washington and Clackamas counties.
What’s next:
ELM and its partners expect to see the tri-county campaign continue to increase early enrollment in coming years.
Resources:
Outreach materials in multiple languages are available for download below!