Kyrene school district encourages families to support incoming kindergarten students

For many of the babies born in 2020, this summer will host their first day of kindergarten.

Kyrene Elementary School District, which serves Ahwatukee, Tempe, and parts of Chandler and Gilbert, will see those incoming kindergarteners when school begins July 23.

In the weeks before school, Kyrene encourages families to help their students prepare by offering them tools to improve social skills, encourage independence and establish a routine.    

“One of the best things you can do to help your kindergartener prepare for the first day of school is to start talking about it early,” said Sarah Collins, director of academic equity and excellence at the district.

Kyrene hosts the annual “Meet the Teacher Night” for both elementary and middle school on July 21in preparation for the 2025-2026 school year.

Kyrene encourages families to read with their students nightly, as 15 minutes a day can literacy and vocabulary for the new year.

The district also encourages families to speak positively about kindergarten. If the student still is nervous, experts ask about their hesitation and let them express their emotions.

“Talk about how much fun they will have meeting new friends and learning new things at school. Most of all, remember that this is a big moment that will come with big feelings, so allow yourself and your little one to feel them and enjoy the experience,” Collins said.