Early Entry Into Kindergarten

Testing required by Beaverton School District

Collective Growth provides contracted evaluations for the Beaverton School District (BSD) to assist in determining eligibility for early kindergarten enrollment. These assessments are intended for children who turn five years old between September 1 and October 1.

Application and Scheduling

  • Timeline: the BSD requires evaluations are conducted exclusively between June 1 and August 1 for September enrollment.

  • Contact: To obtain the required forms, email earlyentrykindergarten@beaverton.k12.or.us. For general inquiries, contact the Parent Information Hotline at 503-356-4325.

  • Appointments: To schedule a two-hour evaluation for June or July, contact me.

Evaluation Process

The assessment is designed to measure a child’s response to novel problems and tasks. No preparation or coaching is necessary or recommended.

  • Consent: In cases involving custody arrangements, both parents must provide consent for the evaluation.

  • Initial Consultation: The appointment begins with a brief meeting involving the parents and the child to ensure the child is comfortable.

  • Standardized Testing: The child will complete the assessment individually with me, the psychologist. Parents will remain in the nearby waiting room.

  • Child Comfort: The office and waiting area are separated by a door. Children are permitted to take breaks to visit parents, have a snack, or move around as needed.

  • Conclusion: After testing, the psychologist will meet briefly with the parents to address any remaining questions.

  • Reporting: Following the appointment, the psychologist will score the materials and draft a report. Copies of this report will be sent to both the parents and the Beaverton School District. The report is usually to the parents within 24 hours of the appointment.

Fees and Financial Assistance

  • Cost: The total fee for the early entry assessment is $600.

  • Payment Terms: A 50% nonrefundable deposit is required within 72 hours of scheduling the appointment to keep it. The remaining balance is due at the time of the evaluation.

  • Financial Aid: Families requiring financial assistance may be eligible for support. Documentation must be provided to the school district. For more information regarding aid, contact the Beaverton School District at 503-356-4325.

Process:

District Policy and Requirements

According to Oregon state law, children must typically be five years old on or before September 1 to enroll in kindergarten. BSD offers an exception for resident students who turn five by October 1, provided they meet specific criteria.

  • Criteria: To be considered for early placement, students must achieve a Full-Scale IQ score at or above the 97th percentile. This is a rigorous standard, as only 3% of children in this age group typically score at this level.

  • Authority: The school district retains sole authority over all enrollment and placement decisions. Completion of an evaluation does not guarantee early entry. I do not personally have any input in the enrollment decision.

  • Reference: For detailed information, parents should review School Board Policies JEBA and JEBA-AR on the Beaverton School District website.

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