Welcome to Our New Kindergarten Families,
We are excited to welcome you to Sorensen Magnet School and to the beginning of your child’s kindergarten journey!
This year, our Kindergarten Balanced Beginnings will include all kindergarten students attending full days during the first week of school. We understand how important it is for our youngest learners to feel safe, confident, and ready to grow. To support a smooth transition, we have designed a week filled with activities and support to help students acclimate to their new environment.
Here’s what you can expect during the first week of kindergarten:
Daily visits from the principal to each classroom for greetings, lessons, and story time while teachers conduct individual student assessments.
Daily visits from the school counselor, who will also facilitate a special lesson on recess routines with help from our fifth-grade buddies.
Fifth-grade buddy meet and greets, with weekly buddy time scheduled throughout the year to build relationships.
Support with lunch routines from staff to help students learn the process and feel comfortable.
A visit from our School Resource Officer (SRO) to introduce themselves to students. A follow-up visit will include a special story time in each classroom.
A visit from the school nurse to discuss health and safety topics and meet each class.
Focus on play-based learning and gradually easing into academics. Teachers will establish routines, expectations, and a sense of classroom community through hands-on activities and exploration.
Morning arrival routines:
On the first day of school, students will meet in their classrooms at 8:45 AM.
Starting on the second day, kindergarten teachers will guide students in beginning their day on the playground at 8:45 AM to help them learn morning routines.
Dismissal will be from the classroom each day at 3:30 PM.
By attending full days from the start, all students will benefit from the opportunity to learn routines, meet staff, attend specials (art, PE, music, technology, and library), and participate in Friday Gatherings. This structure not only helps students feel more secure but also allows families to experience the daily rhythm of our kindergarten program.
We hope this first week provides comfort and confidence for both students and families. Our goal is to ensure everyone feels welcomed, supported, and a part of the Sorensen community from day one.
Warmly,
The Sorensen Kindergarten Team