By 1812Blockhouse
Families in the Lexington Local Schools district can now begin planning for an important milestone. The district has announced that full-day kindergarten will be available for children who turn 5 years old on or before August 19. That date reflects a recent change in Ohio law requiring all districts to follow a uniform age-eligibility cutoff for kindergarten enrollment.
What that means in practical terms is simple. If your child is 5 years old on or before the first day of school for the 2026–2027 school year, they are eligible to start kindergarten. This replaces the previous August 1 cutoff that families may remember from prior years. For parents who have been watching birthdays and doing the math, the updated rule may open the door for some children who would not have qualified under the earlier date.
How to Register
The process begins online. Step one is completing Final Forms at:
http://lexington-oh.finalforms.com/. After that, families must bring required documents in person to Western Elementary.
Documents can be dropped off on regular school days, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The school is also offering extended evening hours from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on March 5 and March 12 to accommodate working families.
What to Bring
Parents or guardians should come prepared with the following:
• Original birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Immunization records
• Custody papers, if applicable
• Proof of residency
Proof of residency can include a utility bill such as gas, water, or electric service, or a lease agreement or mortgage document. It is worth double-checking paperwork before you arrive. Missing documents can slow down the process and may require a second trip.
Kindergarten Screening in May
Kindergarten screening will take place May 4 through May 7.
Families should watch for additional information in April about how to sign up for specific screening dates and times. These screenings help teachers get an early sense of each child’s readiness and ensure a smoother transition into the classroom in the fall. For many families, this season marks the first step into formal schooling. It can feel like a small administrative task on paper, but it carries weight. Kindergarten is where routines form, friendships begin, and confidence starts to take shape.
If you have questions about the process, you can contact Mrs. Catanese, Principal of Western Elementary, at 419-884-2765.
If you know someone in the district with a soon-to-be five-year-old, this is the moment to pass the word along.
