Kindergarten Smart Start

Bethel School District's Kindergarten Smart Start program is designed to help students and families transition smoothly into kindergarten. During the first two weeks of school, incoming kindergarten students attend in smaller groups and on part-time schedules, allowing children to become comfortable in their new school environment while staff get to know each learner.

What is Smart Start?

Smart Start provides a gradual introduction to kindergarten and helps students learn important school routines and expectations, including:

• Classroom expectations
• Recess routines
• Cafeteria procedures
• Arrival and dismissal routines
• Building relationships with peers and staff

This approach also allows educators to get to know each child through observation, play, and small-group activities, helping schools create balanced classrooms that support all learners.

Kindergarten Smart Start Schedule

Week 1: September 7–11

During the first week of school, kindergarten students attend two early-release Smart Start sessions in a small-group setting. This allows staff to observe students in a welcoming environment and begin learning about their strengths, interests, and needs. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day.

Week 2: September 14–18

During the second week of school, kindergarten students attend one full-day session and one early-release session. All students attend together on Wednesday. Individual family meetings take place on Thursday and Friday, providing an opportunity for families to connect with school staff and learn their child's classroom placement.

All kindergarten students begin attending full-day kindergarten on September 21.

Kindergarten Orientation

Each Bethel elementary school will host a kindergarten orientation event the week before school begins (August 31–September 4). Families will receive school-specific information regarding dates, times, and locations during the summer.

Registration & Transportation

Students must be registered for kindergarten before participating in Smart Start.
Families who need bus transportation should also complete the district's transportation registration form. Transportation registration is separate from kindergarten enrollment.

• Kindergarten Registration
• Transportation Registration

Smart Start Family Questionnaire

To help schools prepare for a successful start to the school year, families are asked to complete the Smart Start Family Questionnaire. This form provides important information about scheduling preferences and helps staff learn more about incoming kindergarten students and their families.

• Smart Start Family Questionnaire

Questions?

Questions about Smart Start, kindergarten registration, or transportation can be directed to your neighborhood school or the Bethel District Office at 541-689-3280.

We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2039 to Bethel Schools!