Program Description
The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) believes that early, positive relationships between schools, children, and families shape a child’s educational experience for years to come. Kindergarten transition summer programs support children and their families in experiencing a smooth and successful shift from early childhood into kindergarten. These programs offer a unique opportunity to build relationships, spark joy, and deepen family engagement—laying the foundation for a seamless start to school.
ODE recommends that programs be guided by
three equity-driven program components:
-
Connection as the
Foundation for Learning
Children flourish and learn best in the context of strong and supportive
relationships.
-
Co-Creation, Collaboration,
and Partnership
Children succeed when families, schools
and communities work together during the
transitioning year.
-
Purposeful Outreach
and Engagement
Families thrive when they have access to
culturally affirming and inclusive environments.
Kindergarten transition summer programs should be part of a comprehensive school transition plan that includes a variety of supports beginning in the year prior to kindergarten. These plans should encourage families to register their child early for kindergarten. Be sure to visit
ODE’s Register for Kindergarten Today! webpage where print-ready materials are available in eight languages.
While programs vary school to school based on the unique needs of the school community, ODE recommends all programs include the following components:
-
Classroom experiences
Students engage in hands-on activities, learn classroom routines, and build positive relationships with classmates and educators.
-
Family engagement as a cornerstone
Parents and caregivers are offered multiple opportunities to connect with school staff and other families, and to learn about school, district, and community resources. Activities might include a school scavenger hunt, a playground meet-and-greet, or coffee with school staff. -
Partnerships with community-based organizations
Collaborations with organizations such as Head Start, culturally specific groups, and health providers support strategic outreach to families who have been most marginalized by our systems.
The Oregon Department of Education’s Jump Start Kindergarten Summer Transition Program was launched in response to the impacts of COVID-19 and funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III). The program began in April 2022 and concluded in September 2024.
Although the ESSER III funding has ended, many districts have continued offering similar programs due to their positive impact on incoming kindergarten children and their families.
To learn more about the benefits of Jump Start Kindergarten, read the 2022 Brief, which highlights promising data on improved attendance rates.
For more information on these topics, contact:
Mindi Helmandollar-Armatas, PreK-3rd Grade Coordinator