We are delighted that your child will be promoting to our Primary, Lower Elementary or Upper Elementary Programs. We do several things to assist the transition.

The promotion process begins with a meeting with the Head of School which will offer characteristics of the next level and a tour of the classrooms at that level. Then, during winter parent-teacher conferences, teachers and parents will discuss readiness issues regarding the child's possible promotion, but without recommendations to specific classrooms. The Head of School also meets with teachers to discuss eligible students and placement issues for each of them.

After re-enrollment contracts are returned, the Head of School begins placing promoting students according to information collected. Though parental requests and comments about placement are always considered, children's placements are based on a variety of data collected from the professionals who know your child's educational needs best.

In the spring before promotion, each student transitioning into the Lower Elementary or the Upper Elementary Program will visit their new classroom and meet with our student support services coordinator, Sharon Wilcox, M.S.CCC to assist with the transition.

Guidelines for Entry into Primary

• At least 2.9 years old
• Uses understandable speech to express needs, ideas and frustrations
• Is toilet trained: no diapers or pull-ups; independent toileting
• Has adequate stamina/energy if enrolled for the full day program; does not require a nap
• Is emotionally ready to separate from parents
• Listens and responds to directions
• Is able to sit at circle time attentively
• Is able to do work independently
• Treats materials respectfully
• Has good work habits, puts materials away