As we approach the 2023-24 school year we are eagerly making plans for your child’s transition to Kindergarten. The first few days of school will look different than is typical as we "Ramp-Up to Kindergarten." Our "Ramp-Up" schedule gives us time to get to know your child before being placed into their permanent classroom.

“Kindergarten Orientation Days” August 30, August 31, and September 1

Kindergarten Orientation Days: Your child will be invited to one of the three orientation days. They will spend this day doing fun activities with all Kindergarten teachers in a small group setting.

Students’ assigned day for Kindergarten Orientation is determined by the first letter of their last name:

• Student Last Name A – G: Wednesday, August 30 (7:55 am – 2:15pm)

• Student Last Name H – M: Thursday, August 31 (7:55 am – 2:15pm)

• Student Last Name N – Z: Friday, September 1 (7:55 am – 2:15pm)

Families will drop their students off at the kindergarten entrance (see map linked here) and staff will be present to take students to the classrooms.

• 7:55 am - Kindergarten drop off

• 8:00 am - Parents meet under the Ridges covered play area for a Welcome and Q & A with staff.

“Ramp-Up Days” September 5-7

• Tuesday, September 5 & Wednesday, September 6 - all children attend the full school day (7:55am - 2:15pm). During these two days, students will spend time in each kindergarten classroom with a variety of students and staff.

• Thursday, September 7 - No school for kindergarten students - teachers thoughtfully create balanced classes and prepare classrooms. Kindergarten class lists will be emailed by noon.

• Friday, September 8 – Kindergarten students begin in assigned classes (7:55 - 2:15).

Additional Important Information

• Please fill out this “Go-Home Survey” to let us know your child’s end-of-day transportation plans for the Orientation and Ramp-Up days.

• Please send a healthy, nut-free snack, with your child each day.

• Cold lunch is strongly recommended for the first days of school; however, hot lunch may be purchased. Lunch money should be sent with your child in a sealed envelope or zip-lock bag with your child's first and last name clearly marked on the front. If you are interested in seeing prices, lunch menus or applying for free meals, please see the section below.

This summer, incoming Kindergarten families will have more opportunities to meet staff and other families at Kinder Playdates. Kinder Playdates are 1-hour play times on the Ridges playground, from 4-5 pm. They include arts and crafts and an introduction to the Kindergarten teachers and school principal. Our dates will be July 18th and August 15th. More information will be shared with all registered kindergarten families via email over the summer.

Helpful Links for Incoming Kindergarten Families

• Ridges Elementary homepage
• Ridges PAC website
• Enrollment Information
• Champions (after school child care)
• School Lunch Menus
• SHARE Center | (503) 825-5087
• Sherwood Community Information
• Sherwood School District Calendar