2012-2013 School Registration Begins Today

The first step toward a diploma begins this week for many of our littlest readers.

The Berkeley County School District is hosting its Kick-Off to Kindergarten event through Friday, March 2. Starting today, the district is registering 3-,4- and 5-year-olds for Head Start, Childhood Development and Kindergarten. 

"We are calling this our Kick-Off to Kindergarten to let families know that it is time to start preparing for next year," said Karen Whitley, the district’s Associate Superintendent for Program Support and Pupil Services. 

During Kick-Off to Kindergarten, schools will be open extended hours for families to register their children. Those who do not know which school serves their area can call 843-899-8608 or visit the district’s interactive map that identifies attendance areas.

"By registering now, parents can help us to be fully prepared to welcome our new students at the start of the school year," Whitley said in a statement. "We plan during the summer, so advance registration is a great tool that helps us prepare bus routes, supplies and staffing to meet our students' needs."

The Head Start program is open to Berkeley County children ages three and four, based on family income eligibility, needs assessment and space availability.

The Child Development program is open to Berkeley County 4-year-olds based on family income eligibility. The Kindergarten program is open to all Berkeley County five-year olds. 

When registering, parents will need to bring the following:

• a completed registration form
• the student’s original birth certificate
• a Medicaid number (if applicable)
• two proofs-of-residence with street address (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.)
• a South Carolina immunization form
• applicable health records
• records from previous schools
• special education forms (if applicable)
• proof of guardianship (if student lives with someone other than parent)
• and proof of income (ie: a 2011 tax return) for Head Start or CDEPP registration eligibility. 

Forms are available at each school, or on the district’s website at the district website. For information about the CDEPP or Kindergarten programs, call 843-899-8608. For information about the Head Start program, call 843-553-8783.