Countdown to Kindergarten

Kindergarten registration for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’ 2026-27 school year begins in February. Families are invited to visit their new school in person during the districtwide Countdown to Kindergarten event from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday, February 19, with an inclement weather date of Thursday, February 26. You can get help with the enrollment process, review supplemental materials, and meet the staff.

WS/FCS is committed to helping every student start their education on the right foot in a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. Our kindergarten programs support the holistic development of each student, fostering foundational skills in literacy, math, problem-solving, and social competencies that will help them navigate future academic and life challenges.

“Children who attend high-quality kindergarten programs exhibit enhanced cognitive development, social skills, and emotional well-being. These early educational experiences are linked to higher rates of high school graduation and increased likelihood of pursuing higher education,” said Dr. Paula Wilkins, WS/FCS’ Chief Academic Officer. “By enrolling your child in WS/FCS kindergarten, you give them a strong educational foundation and set them on a path toward lifelong learning and achievement.”

How to Enroll

1.      Find your residential school and gather the documents on our enrollment checklist on the Student Assignment website.

2.      Enroll online as early as February 2. Please note – if your family does not already have a student enrolled with WS/FCS, your address will have to be added into our Student Information System. Starting your application early will help us get your address processed as soon as possible.

3.      Visit your residential school on February 19 for the Countdown to Kindergarten special event.

4.      Interested in a magnet or choice school? The application period for rising Kindergarteners is March 16 to April 17.

Find more information on WS/FCS kindergarten, including health assessment requirements, school tour info, and tips for the first day of school, on our kindergarten webpage. Contact your school directly for more information about their Countdown to Kindergarten offerings.