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Kindergarten Registration

Welcome to Orange County Schools!

We understand that going to kindergarten is an exciting and challenging time for students as well as families. Orange County Schools is ready to help your family prepare for a smooth transition to kindergarten. We are home to seven elementary schools that are all ready to welcome you and launch your child's educational journey.

If your child will turn five (5) years old on or before August 31, that child is eligible to start kindergarten in the 2025-26 school year. The following information will help you navigate the process of registering your child.

Each school handles its own student registration, so if you have any further questions, please contact your child's school. 

Not sure what school your child is assigned to? No worries! Visit our School Site Locator to find your child's base school.

school site locator

Contact Our Elementary Schools

Are You Preparing a Child for Kindergarten?

When families and caregivers are empowered with developmental knowledge and strategies to support the growth of young children, they can enhance the early learning experience.  This will help the child more easily transition to kindergarten. The only requirement for kindergarten entry is that the child turn 5 on or before August 31 of the current year.  

The Let's Get Ready! Guide’s intended use is not to determine if a child “is" or "is not” ready for kindergarten. Rather, this guide provides family-friendly resources on age-appropriate developmental skills, support tips, and at-home activities where adult/child interactions are the central focus.

Find helpful resources you can use now to get ready for kindergarten in the "Parents Corner" on the NC Public Schools website.

Registration Event Information

Step One: Determine Eligibility

To enter Kindergarten in Orange County Schools, children must be five (5) years old on or before August 31. If you child is not eligible for Kindergarten, you may still apply for Pre-Kindergarten. 

Step Two: Identify Your Base School

If you are unsure of your child's base school, you can identify it by using our School Site Locator. Please note: Hillsborough Elementary School, our year-round K-5 school, does not have an attendance zone which means it is not considered a base school. If you wish to enroll your child in Hillsborough Elementary School through the lottery system, visit our learn more section.

Step Three: Gather Required Documents

To complete the enrollment process, upload an electronic copy to the online application or provide the documents to your child's school:

  • Parent/Guardian State Issued Photo Identification (Preferred) or Passport
  • Proof of Domicile in the name of the Parent/Guardian
  • Student Birth Certificate
  • Custody Documents (if applicable)
  • Immunization Records and NC Physical Health Assessment Form
    • According to N.C.G.S. 130A-440, every child entering a North Carolina public school for the first time must receive a health assessment. A parent or guardian must submit a physical health assessment (no more than 12 months prior) within the first thirty (30) calendar days from the first day of attendance.

Step Four: You're Ready to Enroll!

Enroll for the 2026-2027 School Year (Upcoming)

If your child is eligible and will start attending Orange County Schools after July 1, 2026, please enroll your child here. Online registration for 2026-2027 will open on Monday, January 12, 2026 for:

  • Kindergarten Students
  • New students/students returning to OCS
  • Reassignment/Transfer Requests

enroll for the 2026-2027 school year

Year-Round Hillsborough Elementary Lottery

The lottery application for year-round Hillsborough Elementary will be open from Monday, January 12 through Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.

apply for year-round hillsborough elementary

Enroll for the 2025-2026 School Year (Current)

If your child is eligible and will be attending Orange County Schools before June 1, 2026, please enroll your child here for the current school year. 

Enroll for the current school year

All families seeking to apply for Pre-Kindergarten in Orange County Schools for the current school year, please click here.

Need Help?

  • Contact Joy Toellen, Director of Student Assignment
  • Contact Sandra Blefko, Family Engagement Coordinator, for help in languages other than English.