Registering for School is as easy as 1, 2, 3

Chippewa Valley school districts offer some super easy options to get your kid into 4K or kindergarten

Sam Fisher |

Loren Kerns / Creative Commons
Loren Kerns / Creative Commons

It is no secret the Chippewa Valley prides itself on quality education, from pre-kindergarten all the way through college. Check out these tips to get your children started on their educational journey.

When should I start my child in school?

In Wisconsin, formal education can start as early as age 4 with the state’s 4K program. Children who are 4 years of age on or before Sept. 1 of the corresponding school year are eligible. In speaking with Chris Hambuch-Boyle, retired preschool educator of 33 years for the Eau Claire school district and current Eau Claire school board member, I learned the 4K program in the state was designed around the needs of the community, and it helps create consistency in curriculum and flexibility for all families.

Although the 4K program is not mandatory, Hambuch-Boyle did emphasize the benefits of the program such as its ability to help lay the foundation for future learning, along with creating consistency and helping with the transition to kindergarten.

Children already enrolled in 4K do not need to re-enroll for kindergarten in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and Menomonie. In Altoona, 4K students simply need to complete a separate enrollment form.

Registration for the 2016-17 4K school year opens in February for most districts, and there are multiple options for parents when choosing a location.

4K Collaborative Partners

In the Chippewa Valley, there are roughly 50 4K partner sites. Most are through licensed child care providers, offering convenience for parents whose children are in child care. 4K teachers are certified to teach in Wisconsin. There are also locations offering 4K for those who attend faith-based child care centers. A complete list of locations can be found on the corresponding district website.

Prairie Ridge Early Learning Center

In addition to the 4K partners, the Eau Claire school district also offers the program at this district-run school.

At Home

Collaborative 4K also offers parents the option of participating in 4K activities within their own homes. This is a great option for stay-at-home parents. Contact your school to learn more.


 

How do I enroll my child in 4K?

Eau Claire • The window for applications opened Feb. 1. Start with the enrollment application on the district website, Eau Claire School District.

Altoona • Enrollment for Altoona 4K is open. Enrollment forms can be completed at Pederson Elementary. (Note: The enrollment office will be relocated to the new district school.) 4K notices were also sent out via mail.

Chippewa Falls • Enrollment for 4K can be completed by visiting one of the eight 4K partners or by visiting the Chippewa Falls BB4C website, Chippewa Falls School District.

Menomonie • Enrollment for 4K in Menomonie starts with an application at the district office, 215 Pine Ave. 4K notices were also sent out via mail.


 

When does my child start kindergarten?

Children who are age 5 by Sept. 1 of that school year are eligible to start. Kindergarten is mandatory in Wisconsin.


 

How do I enroll my child in kindergarten?

Enrolling your child in kindergarten starts with a simple enrollment form. Here are some additional tips to help you out:

Eau Claire • The enrollment application is on the district website. Completion of the application before March 16 is encouraged to help ensure staffing. Once the application is complete, additional paperwork – such as proof of residency, birth certificate, and other documents – may be necessary at time of the enrollment meeting. Visit  Eau Claire School District for a complete list and to start the application.

Altoona • Enrollment forms can be completed at Pederson Elementary. (Note: The enrollment office will be relocated to the new district school.) Birth certificate and proof of residency required. Visit Altoona School District for a complete list of approved residency documents.

Chippewa Falls • Enrollment forms can be found online (Chippewa Falls School District) can be picked up at 1130 Miles St. Birth certificate is required.

Menomonie • Enrollment forms can be picked up at the district building at 215 Pine Ave. Necessary paperwork such as birth certificate and other documents needed will be listed on the enrollment paperwork.


 

What if I have moved to the Chippewa Valley?

Welcome, we are excited to have you! Enrolling your child in one of our great schools is easy and exciting! Check out the specific district in which you live below.

Eau Claire • Complete the enrollment application located at the enrollment website below. Once the application is complete, additional documents (proof of residency, birth certificate, etc.) may be necessary, including the name and address of the student’s previous schools. (Records will be requested between school districts and additional information may needed.) Check out Eau Claire Area School District for a complete list.

Altoona • Enrollment forms can be completed at the corresponding location (elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school locations). No enrollment meeting is needed, but proof of residency documents are required.

Chippewa Falls • Start by completing the enrollment application found on the Chippewa Falls enrollment website or by picking up an application at 1130 Miles St. New address information and additional documents may be required.

Menomonie • New parents can register their children by stopping by the district office at 215 Pine Ave. to pick up and complete the enrollment application. Residency and other documentation required will be listed on the form.