Kelso families preparing for the 2026–27 school year can now begin enrolling their youngest learners, according to information published on the Kelso School District’s official website. Registration for kindergarten, Transition to Kindergarten, and the district’s Preschool Pups program opened this week.

District materials state that children who will turn five years old by September 1, 2026, are eligible to enter kindergarten. To complete enrollment, families must provide a birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. The district offers two registration options: paper packets available at all elementary schools, or online enrollment through the Kelso School District’s portal at the district’s website. An address lookup tool is also available to help determine a family’s assigned neighborhood school.

Programs for younger learners are also accepting applications. According to district program descriptions, Transition to Kindergarten is a free, full‑day preparatory program serving children who will be four years old by August 31, 2026, and who may benefit from additional support before entering kindergarten. The district’s Preschool Pups program, also free of charge, provides a half‑day classroom experience for three‑ and four‑year‑olds and is held at Kelso’s Catlin site.

As part of the district’s annual outreach efforts, Kelso will host “Kinderpalooza,” an in‑person event designed for incoming kindergarteners, early learners, and their families. According to district event information, the gathering is scheduled for May 5, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Coweeman Middle School.

Why this matters

Access to early learning is a significant factor in long‑term educational outcomes, particularly for families navigating enrollment for the first time. Kelso’s continued investment in free early childhood programs and its annual community events provides an opportunity for families across the district to engage with educators, complete required paperwork, and prepare their students for the transition into the public school system.

Sources

Kelso School District: Early Learning Enrollment Information

Classic Hits 100.7 KLOG: Early Learning Registration & Applications Open Today For Kelso