Use the district school-locator tool to confirm your zoned school

Confirm the grade-level age cutoff date for your state

Check whether pre-K or transitional kindergarten is offered and how seats are awarded

Note the registration window (commonly January–April for the following fall)

Ask whether the school is at capacity and how overflow placement works

Proof of residency: lease or deed plus a recent utility bill

Child's birth certificate or passport

Up-to-date immunization records and any required physical or dental form

Photo ID for the enrolling parent or guardian

Prior school records, report cards, or withdrawal form

Custody, guardianship, or foster documentation if applicable

Current IEP or 504 plan if your child has one

Check open-enrollment, magnet, and charter lottery deadlines (often earlier than zoned registration)

Ask about intra-district and inter-district transfer criteria

Confirm whether transportation is provided for choice placements

Apply to more than one option if lotteries are competitive

Complete transportation registration and confirm the bus stop and time

Apply for free or reduced-price meals if eligible

Set up the parent portal, lunch account, and emergency contacts

Submit medication authorization and health-plan forms to the nurse

Get the school supply list and shop before the late-August rush

Attend orientation or meet-the-teacher night