Kindergarten Readiness
Kindergarten at National Heritage Academies®
A Strong Start for Kindergarten
Kindergarten at NHA® partner schools helps students build early reading and math skills, grow in confidence, and develop strong character through Moral Focus™. With caring teachers, a structured learning environment, and support from families, students build the foundation they need for success in school and beyond.
Core Academics
Building a Strong Academic Foundation
Kindergarten is where students begin building the skills and learning habits they'll use throughout school. Lessons are hands-on and structured, and teachers check progress often so each student gets what they need. NHA kindergarten students consistently grow above the national average in both reading and math.
- English Language Arts: Students learn to recognize letters and words, blend sounds, and understand stories, using a range of real books rather than a single textbook.
- Math: Students build number sense by understanding how numbers work, not just memorizing answers, and apply what they learn to everyday situations.
- Science: Students explore the world around them by asking questions, making observations, and testing ideas.
- Social Studies: Students learn about people, places, communities, and what it means to be a thoughtful and caring citizen.
Character Development
Building Strong Character From the Start
Kindergarten is where students start learning how to make good choices, treat others with respect, and take responsibility for their actions. Through Moral Focus™, students explore a different virtue each month through stories, discussions, and lessons that show what strong character looks like in everyday life.
Wisdom
Respect
Gratitude
Self-Control
Perseverance
Courage
Encouragement
Compassion
Integrity
Beyond the Classroom
Learning Through New Experiences
Kindergarten students have opportunities to explore new interests, build skills, and learn in different ways throughout the school day. Specials and field trips add variety to their learning and give students new ways to discover the world around them.
Specials
Art, music, physical education, and other specials give students a chance to be creative and stay active. These classes also build attention, memory, and self-discipline, skills that support strong academic performance.
Field Trips
Field trips bring learning to life by giving students opportunities to explore new places, make connections, and experience something new with their classmates.
Specials and field trip opportunities vary by school.
Getting Ready
Is Your Child Ready to Start Kindergarten?
Starting kindergarten comes with plenty of questions. Explore these resources to learn when your child can start school and find simple ways to help them get ready for their first day.
When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?
Kindergarten age requirements vary by state. Use our Kindergarten Calculator to find out when your child may be eligible to start school.
Help Your Child Get Ready for Kindergarten
Simple activities, practical tips, and a readiness checklist to help your child feel ready on day one.
Our Staff
Welcome to Kindergarten
NHA partner-school principals and deans share what kindergarten looks like day to day, from early reading and math to the way teachers get to know each student.
"I love that my kindergartener is learning as much as he is! He is thriving academically and socially and seems really happy at school."
NHA Parent
Frequently Asked Questions
Top Questions from Families Like You
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Children who meet the age and residency requirements for their state can apply for kindergarten. Age requirements vary by state. Use our Kindergarten Calculator to find out when your child may be eligible to start school.
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Kindergarten students build early skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. They also build strong character through Moral Focus™ and learn through hands-on activities and classroom experiences.
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Simple activities at home can help your child prepare for school. Read together, practice counting, encourage independence, and build fine motor skills through activities like coloring and cutting.
Visit our Kindergarten Readiness page for more activities, tips, and tools.
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Families can apply to an NHA partner school online, in person, or by phone. If a school receives more applications than available seats during Open Enrollment, a random lottery is held to determine placement.
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Families play an important role in their child's education. Stay connected by talking with your child's teacher, attending school events and conferences, and volunteering when opportunities are available.
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Many NHA partner schools offer kindergarten orientation, open houses, or other events to help children and families prepare for the first day of school. Check with your school or a school near you to learn what events are available.
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