Learn About Kindergarten, Neighborhood Schools and Option Schools

Arlington Public Schools (APS) invites all families entering elementary school in the fall of 2023 to view a video presentation, Welcome to Kindergarten!, on Mon, Jan. 30, 2023, to learn:

• How to prepare for Kindergarten and what to expect
• How to register for your assigned neighborhood school online or in person
• About elementary option schools and the application process
• About the APS Extended Day program and how to register.

In-person Elementary School Information Sessions

• Each elementary school will host an in-person information session in February and March 2023. Learn about each school, connect with staff, and ask questions.

Option Schools

Option elementary schools/programs offer specialized educational instruction. APS provides students the opportunity to attend an option school/program as an alternative to attending their assigned neighborhood school. If more applications are received than seats available, APS will conduct a lottery to determine admission. Learn more.

• Application Window: Students interested in attending an option elementary school/program must submit an online application between Feb. 1 and April 17, 2023. 

All students interested in applying to an option school/program should also register for their neighborhood school as early as possible.

• If a student is offered a space in an option school, the registration will be transferred to the option school.
• If a student is placed on a waitlist for an option school, registering at a neighborhood school guarantees the student will have a space for the upcoming school year.
• Early neighborhood school registrations support APS with staffing projects and allocating resources.