Every year, waves of anticipation ripples through our community as parents prepare to enroll their little ones in kindergarten. If this is your first time preparing for this milestone, you may not know where to start. We've compiled a summary of eligibility and registration information for Roanoke City, County, and Salem.
General Eligibility for the region
- All children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, are eligible for kindergarten.
- If your child does not meet the age requirements for Kindergarten, you may locate a preschool here: Smart2Start
Required Documents
- A state-issued certificate of birth (hospital record is not sufficient). Birth certificates can be ordered from the DMV.
- Proof of residency- Examples: a mortgage, a pending contract, a copy of a lease or a property tax statement will be accepted as proof of residency
- Photo ID of student's parent/guardian
- Immunization record
- A report of a comprehensive physical examination for the child (Physical must be completed within 12 months prior to the first date the child enters school.)
Registration events and information by the school system
Roanoke City
Find your school here- Roanoke City attendance zone locator
Registration dates TBD. Register online here.
First Day of School August 20th
Once the online registration process is completed, parents/guardians will be contacted by the school where your child will attend. Please be aware there will be additional forms to complete at the school, including a Residency/Custody Verification Form.
Roanoke County
Kindergarten registration for 2024-25 school year begins with kickoff events on Feb. 12 & 19
First Day of School August 15
Find your Roanoke County School Here.
For additional information and forms that parents need to complete, print, sign and bring to registration, please see www.rcps.us/registration.
Salem
Registration dates TBD.
First Day of School August 19
Verify Salem Residency and find your school here- Salem Address Verification
Create an Account and Register Here
Other Area school systems: Botetourt, Bedford, Franklin.
As we get closer to the new school year, we'll share information about preparing your child for entering school, First Day of School Photo certificates and more. Register for our weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Sign Me Up!
