Board reviews clearer early-entrance procedures for kindergarten and first grade
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Summary
District staff proposed consolidating early-entrance policies for kindergarten and first grade (policy 4.21) with a standardized screening process, consistent assessments and an appeals path to the board for superior-case decisions.
District leaders presented a consolidated revision to Policy 4.21 covering early entrance to kindergarten and first grade, with a focus on consistent procedures and assessment.
The policy team said the proposed changes move the district from an ambiguous, site-variable approach to a standardized path that names roles, assessments and timelines. The process starts with a parent inquiry, includes a parent-completed checklist and screening by school psychologists, and—if indicated—advances to a full early-entrance evaluation reviewed by a summer evaluation team. The policy allows for culturally appropriate cognitive measures when necessary.
Cassie Gilboa (coordinator for gifted programming) and district psychologists explained that very few cases move to full evaluation annually; when a child scores in the superior range (above the 91st percentile) a recommendation for early entrance would be brought to the board for final approval. One staff member summarized the change: "The procedure... is a clear pathway for… roles and responsibilities, even assessment choice and how we're interpreting that information," noting the intent to reduce ambiguity.
Trustees asked about frequency and cost. Staff said assessments use district instruments already on hand and the principal retains a clear role in communicating with families.
Next step: the revised policy will return for formal adoption following committee review and any edits requested by the board.