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Kindergarten

Overview

All 22 elementary schools in the Puyallup School District offer a full-day kindergarten program, designed to foster early childhood development and learning in a vibrant and supportive environment.

Each school provides a stimulating curriculum that balances academic instruction with social and emotional growth, ensuring that children engage in hands-on activities, collaborative play, and creative exploration. Families can expect a welcoming atmosphere that encourages parental involvement and community engagement, making the transition into elementary education a positive and enriching experience for every child. 

The Evolution of Kindergarten Classrooms

Over the years, Kindergarten classes have undergone significant changes, adapting to the changing needs of society and the developmental requirements of young children.

While developmentally appropriate learning through exploration and play remains essential in the classroom, academically rigorous curricula have become the forefront and plays a vital role in the growth of young learners. By implementing hands-on learning experiences alongside traditional academic subjects, educators create an engaging environment that encourages students to investigate, ask questions, and develop problem-solving abilities. This balanced approach ensures that children not only enjoy learning but also build a strong foundation for future academic success.

PSD Kindergarten Curriculum

Science of Reading Programs: K-5 Literacy 

Bridges in Mathematics

Twig Science Elementary

Second Step Elementary Curriculum

WaKIDS Whole-Child Assessment

The WAKids Whole-Child Assessment is an insightful practice that empowers teachers to observe children in their natural learning environments. 

During everyday activities—ranging from lively transitions between tasks to engaging instruction and dynamic interactions in learning centers—teachers have the opportunity to witness children displaying their skills, knowledge, and abilities in authentic ways, encouraging children to showcase their unique strengths as they navigate and interact with the rich tapestry of their educational experiences.

TSGold Assessment

The Puyallup School District uses TSGold, an assessment tool that helps teachers observe children's development, gaining insight into their unique skills and abilities as they embark on their Kindergarten journey.

TSGold focuses on six essential areas of development and learning, which are crucial for early education:

  • Social-Emotional
  • Physical
  • Language
  • Cognitive
  • Literacy
  • Math

Family Connections

The Family Connection component of WaKIDS ​acknowledges the family's role as their child's first teacher and ​invites them to share the unique insights they have about their ​child. ​

​The Family Connection offers families an opportunity to get​ to know the teacher, share information about their child, and ​ask questions.​

Families will be contacted by their child’s teacher as the beginning of the school year nears to schedule this individual meeting.

Transportation

Kindergarten Readiness Skills

2025-26 School Year Registration

Please note that children must be five years old on or before August 31, 2025, to register for kindergarten. 

Contact Info

Nancy Strobel 
Director of Elementary Teaching and Learning

​Kris Wilkinson
Administrative Assistant​