FAQ s

Frequently Asked Questions

This page is not intended to answer every question, but to provide answers to those that we know are most frequently asked. In most of these answers, we provide additional methods to receive more information. In those cases where there might not be a response, please call your school.
 

How old does my child have to be to attend every day kindergarten?

By state law, your child must be five-years-old on or before September 1 of the school year in which s/he is scheduled to begin.
 

Is kindergarten mandatory?

Mandatory has a negative connotation and we believe, supported by substantial research, everyday kindergarten has a positive impact on a child’s educational growth. While every parent can make their own decision as it relates to their child’s education, our program is structured for every child in ISD 728.
 

Is there a cost to the extended day offerings?

Community Education provides before and after school programming,EdVenture Club, with a wide range of offerings at a reasonable cost. Please call 763-241-3544 or visit www.isd728.org/EdVentureClub.
 

Do I need to have my child screened before starting Kindergarten?

Yes. Minnesota state law requires participation in screening before a child starts kindergarten, or must take place within 30 days of when a child starts kindergarten. Children who attend Head Start or Early Childhood Special Education may not need to participate; please visit www.isd728.org/screening call 763-241-3525 for more information. 
 

What is Early Childhood Screening?

Early Childhood Screening is a free and simple check of how your child is developing and growing and consists of the following components:

• Cognitive development
• Large and small muscle development
• Language and communication skills
• Social and emotional development
• Vision and hearing
• Height and weight
• Healthy history
• Immunization review

Screening in early childhood supports children’s readiness for kindergarten and promotes health and development. Screening may link families to early learning opportunities and resources such as Early Childhood Family Education, Early Childhood Special Education, School Readiness or home visiting programs. Screening is not a substitute for health care from your family physician or other providers. Visit www.isd728.org/screening for more information.
 

What is provided beyond the curriculum?

Students will receive a core academic program that will focus on language arts, math, social studies, science and health. Kindergarten teachers will embed art, music and physical activity into each day's lesson.
 

Will meals be available?

Yes, breakfast and lunch programs will be offered.
 

I heard there is an option to help provide food for students in need.

Southwest Foodservice Excellence, our district food contractor, has a confidential online application for Free and Reduced Meals. To learn more visit  www.isd728.org/FARM or call 763-241-3400 x1350.
 

I have a child with special needs. Are there services available?

Yes, we welcome all children. We recommend you call 763-241-3557 or visit www.isd728.org/SpecialEducation for additional information.
 

Will busing be available?

Students will ride the bus to and from school. There are provisions, requirements and specifics, so we recommend you visit www.isd728.org/Transportation or call 763-241-4420 for more information.
 

Are the teachers licensed and qualified?

Most certainly. All of our teachers are licensed and qualified by the State of Minnesota.
 

Is everyday kindergarten available in every elementary school?

All ISD 728 elementary schools, with the exception of Westwood (grades 2 through 5) offer every day kindergarten.
 

Is everyday kindergarten free?

Similar to grades 1 through 12, qualified students attend public schools with no tuition cost.
 

My child has health issues that must be addressed during the day.

We recognize children come to our schools in all shapes and sizes and with different needs. Health is no exception. There are factors that we as a team of parents and staff must address to ensure not only your child, but everyone in the school learns and works in a healthy environment. Please call 763-241-3433 to discuss your child’s health needs.
 

Am I as a parent expected to actively participate in my child’s education?

Research shows active parent involvement has a positive impact on a child’s developmental growth. We highly recommend that all parents not only read and help their child with their homework, but also to become appropriately involved in their school. Call your new principal to find out how you can help your child and school succeed.
 

I believe my child qualifies for the Early Admissions to the kindergarten Program.

The early admissions program allows exceptional students to be considered for kindergarten if they turn five years of age between September 1 and October 15. The application must be submitted before June 1 of the forthcoming school year. Parents/Guardians should consider applying for early admission only if they feel their child's total social, cognitive, and emotional development is outstanding compared to most children of the same age. Contact the Elementary Assistant Superintendent's office for more information.
 

How will I know about the school schedule?

Each year all residents in the ISD 728 geographical area are mailed that year’s calendar. This includes comprehensive information, including key dates for the district and schools. You can also access the calendar online by clicking here as well as visit your school website.

Registration Questions

What do I do if my child will NOT be attending kindergarten in ISD 728?

If you received our notification to register and your child will not be attending an ISD 728 school, please complete the Non-Attendance Form and return to our Welcome Center or child's school. This is essential for helping us determine accurate enrollment numbers to plan effectively for our upcoming school year.

Download the Non-Attendance Form »

Following the Online Registration, what do I need to complete my child's enrollment?

When registering for kindergarten, there are several additional forms or documents that may be requested when the school contacts you.

Use this checklist below to ensure you have all of the necessary, and fully-completed, paperwork and forms to begin the journey of learning in ISD 728.

• Parent and/or guardian photo identification
• Student Transportation Information Form
• Early Childhood Screening verification if not screened in ISD 728
• Two proofs of residency, such as a utility bill, signed rental agreement, deed, etc. (if not uploaded in the Online Registration)
• Photocopy of Kindergartner’s birth certificate or immigration documentation (if not uploaded in the Online Registration)
• Health and Medical Examination Form (if not uploaded in the Online Registration)
• Pupil Immunization Record Form (if not uploaded in the Online Registration) OR a statement of conscientious or medical exemption.