What every parent needs to know about 4K and 5K

All children who are four years old on or before September 1, 2020 (for the 2020-21 school year) and live in the Madison Metropolitan School District are eligible to participate in the Four-Year-Old Kindergarten (4K) program.
MMSD 4K - 2020-2021 School Year
Families and students, Welcome to 4K! This school year will be unique for our 4K students as, for many students, it is their first experience with school. Due to COVID-19, MMSD school sites will be 100% virtual through the first quarter. Virtual learning is about connecting children and families with their teachers through online and offline activities so that learning continues while students are home.
MMSD families enrolled in the 4K program can have their child attend virtual learning through elementary school sites or through face to face programming options at partnering Early Care and Education (ECE) sites in the Madison community. Options at the ECE sites include face-to-face, virtual, or a combination of both virtual and face-to-face; programming varies by site. Families who choose to attend programming at ECE sites will need to contact the center directly to determine what the center is offering and what best meets their family’s needs.
As we start the school year, 4K teachers are excited and eager to build strong relationships with each and every student and their families! Let’s work together to make it a great school experience for your child.
Here is a list of MMSD 4K sites including elementary schools and ECE centers:
https://earlyed.madison.k12.wi.us/4k-site-information
Quick facts:
- The 4K program is an optional, tuition-free* program offered by MMSD
- 4K follows play-based learning standards to get your child ready for Kindergarten
- It takes place in many MMSD elementary schools and early care and education (ECE) centers
- 4K school supply lists are available on your school's website in the spring.
- Read Frequently Asked Questions about the 4K program
- There is a summer school program for kids who did not attend 4K and are entering kindergarten in the fall. Learn more about Jump Start to Kindergarten
- Download the Kindergarten Packet for families (2020-21)
*There is a $40 materials fee. If you are attending 4K at an Early Care and Education Center, please contact the site Director for information on how to pay the fee.