Junior Kindergarten

Junior Kindergarten
Hawaii State Department of Education

Junior Kindergarten pamphlet What do parents need to know about Act 219?

Starting School!
Entering kindergarten is a very exciting time! It is also a time of considerable adjustment for some children and their families. This adjustment may be even more challenging for young children whose developmental abilities may not readily match the expectations of school.

The Entrance Age
The cutoff date to enter kindergarten is inconsistent across the United States. The current cutoff date to enter kindergarten in Hawaii is December 31, one of the latest among the states.

Act 219 (SLH 2004)
Act 219 changed the age criteria for kindergarten entry and established junior kindergarten. Beginning with school year 2006-07, children who are five years of age by August 1 will be enrolled in kindergarten. Children who are born from August 2 through December 31 will be enrolled in junior kindergarten.

Beginning with school year 2006-07:

Children who are five years of age on or before August 1 of the school year will be enrolled in kindergarten.
Children who are five years of age on or after August 2 and on or before December 31 of the school year will be enrolled in junior kindergarten.

pencil drawing of happy boy outside

Meeting the Needs of Young Students
Schools will focus on meeting the developmental and learning needs of all students. Teachers will provide learning experiences that are meaningful for young students. They will also help students develop the behaviors, skills, and attitudes they need to feel competent and confident in school.

photo of school girl

Kindergarten provides young students with positive experiences that are important in establishing the foundation for future school attitudes and success.

Public education for young children in Hawaii
Young children in Hawaii will benefit from attending public schools with quality kindergarten.

For further information, contact your child's school or Student Support Services Branch
Phone: (808) 735-6222
DOE web site: www.doe.k12.hi.us

Our goal is to provide all
students with positive early
experiences that promote
life long learners.

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