Mansfield Public Schools registration is now open for Mansfield resident families interested in enrolling their children for Kindergarten in the district for the 2026/27 school year.

Children who will be age 5 by September 1, 2026 are eligible to begin registration for Kindergarten at Mansfield Elementary School (MES).  Families with children already attending the Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) program at Mansfield Elementary School do not need to register them again for Kindergarten. 

This is the third year in Connecticut with the new age of eligibility that ensures students are age 5 by September 1 when school starts.  “Five year olds are much better prepared, socially, emotionally, and developmentally to begin Kindergarten,” says MES Principal Kate McCoy.  “Our data is proving that starting Kindergarten at age five is better for these young students in the long run.  Five year olds are developmentally ready when they walk into Kindergarten,” she adds.

If a family believes that their child is ready to enter Kindergarten before the student is eligible under the state’s age guidelines, they may request a waiver.   The waiver application must be completed by March 30, 2026 at 5 PM as part of the preregistration process. The waiver application is available on the Registration page of the district’s website. 

Families with questions are also encouraged to reach out directly to the Mansfield Elementary School office at 860.423.1611. 

Registration for Mansfield’s PreK Lottery will open April 1.