Proficient Reading:
Elementary: 29%
Middle: 26%
High: 28%
|
Distinguished Reading:
Elementary: 24%
Middle: 26%
High: 22%
|
Proficient Math:
Elementary: 31%
Middle: 28%
High: 25%
|
Distinguished Math:
Elementary: 17%
Middle: 19%
High: 17%
|
Early Entry to Kindergarten
FCPS has set guidelines for early admission for those who have mastered certain benchmarks and have above-average skill levels before age 5.In Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS), children who turn 5 on or before Aug. 1 can start kindergarten in the fall. In accordance with KRS 158.031(6), FCPS has set guidelines for early admission for those who have mastered certain benchmarks and have above-average skill levels before age 5. Children who turn 5 between Aug. 2 and Oct. 31 may be eligible for early admission as long as they meet or exceed these physical, behavioral, academic, and social/emotional criteria established by the Fayette County Board of Education.
- KDE resource: School Readiness Definition
Early entrance into kindergarten is governed by law through KRS 158.030, and parents/guardians may petition FCPS for early enrollment.
The application window is Nov. 3 through Jan. 30 for the 2026-27 school year. Because of the timeline and multiple steps in the process, we are unable to accept any late applications.
Children showing a need for acceleration are assessed via school-level observations and readiness tests. FCPS will notify families the week of Feb. 2 with their child's appointment details, including the date, time, and location.
- Assessment Window: Feb. 9-13
The child must score in the 96 percentile on the kindergarten readiness exam and 75% on a social/emotional observation to be considered for a possible placement. The decision based on screening results is final. Families cannot appeal or ask for another screening.
We will let families know if their student has met the eligibility requirements for early entrance to kindergarten in Fayette County Public Schools.
Note: Families may also apply for the kindergarten programs at Maxwell Spanish Immersion Magnet Elementary, Dixie Magnet Elementary, Rise STEM Academy for Girls, or George Washington Carver STEM Academy for Boys. Early entrance there depends on both the lottery placement and the early-entry kindergarten placement decision.