Early Learning Registration Opens March 2 In Kelso (Photo) - 02/27/26
Registration and applications open March 2 for early learning programs in Kelso.
PRESCHOOL PUPS
Preschool Pups is a FREE, inclusive preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds who would benefit from a half-day, high-quality program. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators. This program is housed at Catlin site (404 Long Ave, Kelso) and open to all Kelso families.
- Open to three- and four-year-olds, must turn three prior to enrolling
- Students are enrolled as they apply until the program is at capacity
- Morning and afternoon sessions, four half-days a week
- Morning session provides breakfast; afternoon session provides lunch
- Enrollment packets can be picked up at Catlin, Kinderpalooza, or accessed online at bit.ly/ksd-early
- Learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early
TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN (TK)
Transition to Kindergarten (TK) is a FREE pre-kindergarten program for children who will be four years old by August 31, 2026, and would benefit from additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten the following year. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators.
- Full day, five days a week
- Access to transportation (for those who do not live in identified walking boundaries)
- Access to specialists, recess, lunch, and all aspects of the kindergarten school day
- To the greatest extent possible, students will be placed for TK at their home school
- Apply for the program online at bit.ly/ksd-tk-app
- Learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early
KINDERGARTEN
Kindergarten is for children who will be five years old by September 1, 2026. To determine which school children should attend, families can enter their address at bit.ly/school-site. Documents needed for enrollment include: birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. There are two ways to register:
- Fill out a paper packet. Enrollment packets may be picked up at any elementary school, Kinderpalooza, or downloaded from the Kelso School District (KSD) website at bit.ly/enrollatksd.
- Enroll online at bit.ly/enrollatksd.
Not sure which program is right for your child? For a detailed comparison between TK, Preschool Pups, and Head Start—including program staffing, calendars, and qualifications—visit bit.ly/ksd-early or see the document at bit.ly/ksd-earlyinfo.
KINDERPALOOZA
Kinderpalooza, a fun event for Kelso kindergartners, early learners, and their families, is Tuesday, May 5, at Coweeman Middle School (2000 Allen St, Kelso) from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. At this event you can:
- Register for school if needed (even if you’ve already registered, please come)
- Meet Kelso staff
- Board and ride a school bus
- Learn about summer learning activities in our community
- Get information about the breakfast and lunch programs
- Learn how to become a parent volunteer
- Talk to a school nurse about medications and immunizations
- Take a picture at the Class of 2039 photo booth
- Enjoy some snacks
- AND MORE!!!!
For additional information or questions, families can contact their school office or email early.learning@kelsosd.org.
About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world. When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).
