ASU Prep is excited to offer a pathway for young learners ready to embark on their educational journey a bit earlier than usual. Typically, children must be five by September 1 to enter kindergarten, but our process allows those turning five by January 1 to demonstrate readiness through a comprehensive assessment.
The early readiness evaluation identifies students ready to thrive in a formal learning environment by assessing crucial skills such as language skills, social skills, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, independence, attention span, problem-solving skills and basic knowledge.
Opportunities and options
Fostering a love for learning is a key goal of the early readiness option, which benefits students who are kindergarten-ready but just shy of the traditional cutoff. Melinda Weible, Director of Exceptional Programs for ASU Prep’s four elementary immersion campuses, explains that “the kiddos who were able to meet the eligibility have a good amount of skills, and so should they have waited, they might have been bored the next year in kindergarten. This opportunity is challenging and new and yet not so difficult that it becomes a struggle.”
The assessment, using the nationally normed Dial-4 screening tool, is designed to be fair and set children up for success. It also helps identify those who may benefit from gifted services, early intervention, or special education resources. “It really just opens up opportunities and options,” Weible adds.
Weible notes the importance of social, emotional, and behavioral readiness, which can’t be fully assessed by the screener alone. Therefore, eligible students undergo a two-week classroom trial to demonstrate readiness, with all this year’s participants successfully integrating and thriving.
Early exposure to digital learning
Michael Barreras, kindergarten teacher at ASU Prep Digital, highlights the critical role of socialization in kindergarten, noting, “A big thing about kindergarten is just learning how to be social. Every kid is so different, but some are definitely ready and need that exposure.”
Online kindergarten, like in-person school, offers a structured environment to cultivate social skills, teamwork, and collaboration. It emphasizes the significance of social-emotional activities and enrichment in enhancing the online learning experience. Additionally, the curriculum promotes independence by teaching routines and problem-solving skills, which Barreras believes is perfectly suited for some younger children excited to begin their school journey.
Early digital learning enables children to quickly adapt to technology, laying a strong foundation. As Barreras points out, “Students are able to learn how to manipulate the computer and how to use all the programs. The little ones, they pick things up so quickly. That will really help them with their long-term digital learning.”
Building a strong foundation for future success
Whether online or in person, ASU Prep’s early kindergarten readiness process celebrates the unique educational journeys of young learners, setting them up for success in a dynamic and engaging environment. By identifying and nurturing early readiness, we inspire students to reach their full potential.
