Academic Choices
Third Grade Reading Legislation
The Third Grade Reading legislation requires each district to implement an on-going norm-referenced assessment (like the NWEA MAP Test) to identify each child’s reading progress.
Beginning with the 2019-20 school year, all third graders in Michigan are required to meet the state’s reading proficiency criteria on the M-STEP and/or qualify for a good cause exemption as defined in PA 306, in order to be promoted to fourth grade.
For continued support in reading, please contact your child’s teacher. For more on the state’s Read By Grade Three Law, go to the Michigan Department of Education’s webpage on early literacy (www.michigan.gov/earlyliteracy), where you can find helpful information and resources.
Academic News
YCS Preschool and Kindergarten Age Eligibility Guidelines 2025-26
YCS Preschool and Kindergarten Age Eligibility Guidelines
2025-26 School Year
Welcome to Ypsilanti Community Schools Preschool and Kindergarten Programs. We look forward to getting to know you and your family.
The information below will assist you in the registration process.
Early Headstart
- Eligibility: Ages 18 months - 36 months by December 1, 2025
DOB Eligibility: For Age 18 months 6/1/2024
DOB Eligibility: For Age 36 months 12/1/2022
Preschool
- Eligibility: Age 3 by December 1st, 2025
DOB Eligibility: 12/1/2021 through 11/30/2022
- Eligibility: Age 4 by December 1st, 2025
DOB Eligibility: 12/1/2020 through 12/1/2021
Our preschool program promotes social, emotional, and academic growth for children aged three to four. Skilled teachers offer engaging activities in math, science, reading, and writing, helping children develop essential Kindergarten readiness skills for future success.
Young Fives
Young Fives is a two-year Kindergarten program designed for children turning 5 years old between June 1 and December 1st.
- Eligibility:
DOB Eligibility: 6/1/2020 through 12/1/2020
Our program establishes a strong foundation for future success in all learning areas. Children learn through hands-on activities, songs, and games, making the process enjoyable. Ongoing assessments track personal growth. After our two-year Kindeergarten program, children are ready for first grade.
Students who turn 5 after August 31st should enroll in the preschool program.
Kindergarten
Eligibility: According to Michigan Compiled Law under MCL 380.1147 and 388.1606, the enrollment age for incoming Kindergarten students is as follows:
Students must turn 5 by September 1, 2025.
- Eligibility:
DOB Eligibility: 12/1/2019 through 9/1/2020
Exceptions Provided for Kindergarten Enrollment Age
If your child turns five between September 1 and December 1, you can submit a Kindergarten Waiver Request Form before the school year starts. The school district will evaluate your child's readiness for kindergarten based on age and development. They will work with you to find the best placement for your child's educational start.
Early Childhood Programs
Information on Early Childhood Programs at Ypsilanti Community Schools.
Visit the Early Childhood Programs page
Student Support Services
Ypsilanti Community School provides services to students with disabilities in a continuum of educational environments, from regular class placements with special education services and programs to full-day programs in county-based programs.
Visit the Student Support Services page
M-STEP Parent Information
Common Core
How are 'Common Core' standards playing out in Michigan classrooms today?
Back in 2010, the State Board of Education approved the Common Core State Standards for Michigan — a set of math and English goals for K-12 students.
Explantion of standards
Reading Reasons: Motivational Mini-Lessons for Middle and High School
Link to article
