Kindergarten Prep Program Grows to Seven Schools

The district is making it easier for new kindergarteners to feel at home before school starts. This year, the Little Barbs Academy visits seven elementary schools: Brooks, Cortland, Founders, Littlejohn, Malta, Mitchell and Tyler. Kids go to the school that matches their home address. The program runs from August 3 to August 6, between 9 a. m. and 11 a. m. Parents who want their children to join must fill out an interest form by July 10. The forms are on the district website and come in English or Spanish.Little Barbs Academy is all about confidence. Students practice classroom routines, play games and hear stories that teach them how to behave in school. The goal is to make the first day feel less scary. The program helps especially those who have never been in preschool or a structured setting before. It also supports kids who might need extra help getting used to school life. After a parent submits the form, the district will send more details.