North Central Schools have announced the registration and screening process for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year, in compliance with new state requirements.
New State Law on Kindergarten Age
The State of Ohio has enacted House Bill 114, requiring that children must be five years old by the first day of their district’s school year to enroll in kindergarten.
This law takes effect for the 2026-2027 school year. North Central Schools appreciate the community’s understanding and partnership as they implement these state-mandated changes.
Registration Details
Registration for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten will be conducted by phone. Parents or guardians of children who will be five years old on or before August 19, 2026—the first day of school—should call 419-737-2293 between March 1 and March 31, 2026, from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. to register and schedule a screening appointment.
During registration, you will be asked to provide your child’s name, birth date, parent names and address, telephone number, and preschool information (if applicable).
Required Screening Clinic
The Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Clinic will take place on Tuesday, April 21 and Wednesday, April 22 at North Central Elementary School.
Attendance at the clinic is required by state law before students can begin school in August. Parents must bring the following documents to the appointment:
•Child’s birth certificate
•Immunization record
•Custody document (if applicable)
•Proof of residency
Parents are also required to attend the clinic with their child. The screening will be conducted by kindergarten teachers, the school nurse, speech and hearing therapist, school social worker, and principal.
All students will participate in the state-mandated kindergarten screening as part of the assessment.
Importance of Early Registration
The number of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten sections offered is based on the number of students screened in April. Classroom placements will be determined after the screening, and families will be notified of their child’s placement for the 2026-2027 school year.
Those who miss the April clinic may have to wait until after the school year begins for screening and placement.
Preschool Program Information
North Central will again house a preschool unit operated by the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center for children ages 3-5. For more information, contact the Educational Service Center at 567-444-4800.
For questions about the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten screening clinic, contact the elementary office at 419-737-2293.