Jenison Public Schools leaders are thrilled to introduce a parent information event and personalized kindergarten screening process for new students to the district.

The Kindergarten Parent Info Night takes place Monday, Jan. 27 from 7-8 p.m. at the Jenison Center for the Arts. The event was designed to help parents understand the kindergarten programming options and support services available, according to Kristy Rogalla, director of teaching and learning. 

It also will showcase the district’s commitment to partner with families and meet the academic, social and emotional needs of each child in a developmentally appropriate way, setting the stage for lifelong success, she said. 

Next parents will register their student for Kindergarten Screening on Wednesday, Feb. 5 or Thursday, Feb. 6. Rogalla said the child will meet one-on-one with a teacher to determine the best fit and kindergarten program placement for the student. This personalized approach will help build a strong connection between students, families, and the district. 

“That makes this a unique experience,” Rogalla said. “‘This is Jenison. I want my kid to be here.’”

She added that the screening is more than just testing. Students can also pick out a kindergarten book and have a picture taken with a JPS backdrop.

After the screening, JPS will assess whether the student is ready for kindergarten or if transitional kindergarten would be a more appropriate option. Parents will receive an email a few weeks later with the placement recommendation for their child.

For more information about the JPS kindergarten offerings and to register a student for Kindergarten Screening, visit jpsonline.org/KindergartenScreening.