The first day of kindergarten is the start of an amazing adventure for a child. It is the official start of a student's educational path tow ard graduation and we take pride in being a part of each stud ent's journey.

As a parent myself, I have really enjoyed watch- ing our youngest son grow and learn in kindergarten. I know how important this first year of school is for him.

Our kindergarten students enjoy an all day, every day program and are introduced to a variety of fun subject components including physical education, health, technology, music, art and other special topics. Our teachers have over 60 years of combined teaching experience and use a proven, successful teaching curriculum to ensure a solid foundation of literacy and math concepts - which are usually seen by students as just really fun projects.

We are again hosting Kindergarten Round Up at each of elementary schools for families with children age five prior to September 1st. If you have not had a chance to visit our schools in a while or if you are new to our community, we extend a special invitation to join us. Round Up is a great way to meet the teachers, see the elementary schools, and hear what your child will be learning in kindergarten.

Please plan to join us for Kindergarten Round Up at Motley Elementary on March 31 at 6 p.m. and at Staples Elementary on April 2 at either 3:45 p.m.or 6:45 p.m.

If your child is not quite old enough for kindergarten, we have great preschool programs already enrolling for this fall. For children ages three to five, the Staples Motley High School Child Care program offers a part time preschool which encourages play and social development through a flexible, fun curriculum.

This unique and popular preschool program is an amazing first experience for young children. Contact Lisa Kajer at 218-894-5422 if you are interested in learning more.

School Readiness classes are offered for children who have reached the age of four by Sept. 1. These classes focus on the social and learning readiness skills necessary for kindergarten. For more information, please contact Beth Fabian at 218-894-2886 or Brenda Lindberg at 218- 894-2130.

If you have questions, please contact me at 218- 894-2430 or mschmitz@ isd2170.k12.mn.us.