Early Admission to Kindergarten

Considering Early Admission to Kindergarten?

Children who turn 5 years old between September 2 and December 31 may be eligible for Early Admission to Kindergarten (EAtoK). Here are some key points to know:

• There is a separate application for Early Admission to Kindergarten that is different from the standard PreK-12 enrollment form.
  • PreK-12 Enrollment Form: apply.spps.org
  • Early Admission to Kindergarten: bit.ly/EAtoKForm
• Interested parents are encouraged to apply for both Pre-K and EAtoK at the same time. (That way, your child has twice the chance at securing a spot at L'Etoile du Nord.)
• After applying, your child will be assessed by a screener (test) and an observation in a Kindergarten classroom.
• The decision of the screening team is final and cannot be appealed. Not all students who apply for EAtoK will be accepted.
• The Early Admission process is a free service provided by the Student Placement Center.

Is my child ready for EAtoK?

The Early Admission process involves an evaluation of your child’s Kindergarten Readiness. To be recommended for early admission to Saint Paul Public Schools, your child must demonstrate:

• advanced cognitive abilities
• strong academic readiness
• strong motor skills
• maturity in language and communication
• social/emotional development 

Enrolling a child in kindergarten early is an important decision that may have a long-term impact on their educational progress.

How do I apply for EAtoK?

If you think your child is ready and you’d like to apply for EAtoK, complete the following 2 steps by February 20, 2026:

1. Fill out the Early Admission to Kindergarten application online:

Ea-to-K Application

2. Submit a copy of your child’s birth certificate to the Student Placement Center:

• Email: spc@spps.org

• Mail or Drop Off: Student Placement Center, 2102 University Avenue West, Saint Paul, MN 55114

In the spring, the Student Placement Center will contact you to schedule two assessments for your child: a Kindergarten Readiness screening in March and a classroom observation in April. Final decisions are communicated to families in late April.

Questions?

Visit the Early Admission to Kindergarten website for more information. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us or the Student Placement Center.