FRANKLIN
The Franklin City and Southampton County public school systems have announced a joint kindergarten registration to take place on Tuesday, April 21. S.P. Morton Elementary School will be welcoming parents and children from 1 to 3 p.m., while the Southampton elementary schools will be active from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

The event, sponsored by Smart Beginnings of Western Tidewater, will be at your child’s zoned school and is open to children who will be 5 years old by Sept. 30.

If you are unable to determine the zone in which you live, contact the Southampton School Board Office at 653-2692.

Items to bring include the child’s birth certificate, immunization record, physical exam record, social security card and proof of residence. S.P. Morton Principal Jason Chandler said there will be various stations set up at the school to help guide parents through the process and check records.

Although a teacher won’t be assigned until later in the spring, Chandler recommended starting the process early because it would still give parents time to start that relationship before fall registrants.

“It is a good time to come and take a look at the school and meet the school nurse, teachers and councilors,” he said. “Being proactive is a good way to get things settled for your child.”

S.P. Morton is having to have its registration earlier in the afternoon because Tuesday had previously been planned as a Standards of Learning night.

“We will have teachers and activities set up to enhance and prepare students for SOL testing,” Chandler said. “We are only 23 days out for S.P. Morton — it is going to be a great help.”

Additionally, Southampton will host the inaugural “Let’s Get Ready for Kindergarten Fair”today. The fair, set for 4 to 6 p.m., will be at Shands Park in Courtland. Prospective students will receive free books, balloon animals, snacks, raffle prizes and have the opportunity to play games.

Southampton Superintendent Dr. Alvera J. Parrish said that the event allows families with children who aren’t in a formal daycare or preschool setting to learn about the county schools.

“This event allows us to get a better feel for or identify students that potentially can go to Southampton,” she said.

Managing Editor Cain Madden contributed to this report.