Gwinnett County Public Schools Update on Kindergarten Registration and Grade Level Placement Practices

     While the district’s Kindergarten age eligibility policy has not changed, we recognize that families have experienced confusion in the past due to differences in how the policy was applied across schools. We are addressing this by strengthening communication, improving consistency, and ensuring families are clearly informed and supported throughout the enrollment process—while continuing to honor the individual needs of every child.

     “We are taking clear, intentional steps to improve processes and communication, while continuing to honor what matters most: listening to families, considering each child’s individual needs, and working together to support a strong start to learning,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Al Taylor.

Commitment to Families and Student Needs

     GCPS believes strongly in the importance of early learning and understands that every child’s educational journey is unique. While Kindergarten is not required by state law for children, because of our commitment to early learning, GCPS does offer Kindergarten at all 81 elementary schools, as well as Pre-K and birth-to-five learning options.

     Beginning with the 2026–27 school year, GCPS will use an updated Grade Level Consideration process only for families with six-year-old children who are new to GCPS and are seeking kindergarten placement instead of 1st grade. This process will ensure that families are included in the conversation and that decisions are made thoughtfully, consistently, and with each child’s needs in mind.

     Full details of the updated Grade Level Consideration Team process will be published in early March, ahead of the opening of Kindergarten Registration for the 2026–27 school year on March 16, 2026. In the coming weeks, school leaders and staff will receive training to ensure consistent implementation across the district.

Legislative Awareness and Compliance

     GCPS is aware that new state legislation related to age requirements is being proposed during this legislative session. We appreciate the opportunity to provide feedback and information to our delegates that are interested in new legislation related to Kindergarten and the funding of early learning in all Georgia schools.

     If Georgia law, including O.C.G.A. § 20-2-150, is amended or new legislation is enacted, GCPS will update its policies and practices in a timely manner, as we always do, to remain fully compliant with all state and federal laws.

Registration Timeline and Next Steps

• Online Registration for the 2026–27 school year, including for Kindergartners, will open on March 16, 2026 through the district website.
• Information about the grade level consideration process for those wanting a placement review for their child will be shared through district communication channels and with local preschools and childcare providers throughout Gwinnett County.
• Elementary school leaders and staff will receive training on the new process by the end of February to support consistent implementation.
   

What Families Need to Know

• The Kindergarten age policy has not changed.
• GCPS is improving consistency in how the policy is applied across schools.
• Parents will be part of the conversation for any review requested, there are no automatic decisions.
• Children who are five by September 1 should register for Kindergarten as usual.
• Online Registration for the 2026–27 school year will open on March 16, 2026.
• Families with six-year-olds new to GCPS may request a placement review that includes parent input and available early learning information.
• Full details of the grade level consideration placement process will be shared publicly before registration begins.

     We appreciate the engagement and feedback of our families as we continue to improve our practices in service of each and every student in GCPS.