In an effort to enroll as many students as early as possible, McDowell Mountain Elementary School is holding its annual Kindergarten/Preschool Roundup on Feb. 22 and 23.

Running from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 22 and from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 23, with an hour break between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., parents can come by the McDowell Mountain campus to register their child early for the 2018-19 school year.

Early registration has its benefits for both the school and the parents, according to Fountain Hills Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sweeney.

“From the district’s perspective, early kindergarten registration allows us to better estimate enrollment and assists in planning for teachers and resources,” Sweeney said. “For parents, getting their children registered for kindergarten early gets an important item of their plates.”

Parents and children who attend the Roundup will have the chance to meet MMES office and health staff who can answer any questions a parent or child might have. Principal Valerie Dehombreux will also be there to greet new enrollers and provide tours of the school.

The enrollment process, which will take an hour to complete, requires that the parents bring a birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency and, of course, their child.

While parents fill out the necessary paperwork the children will be busy completing pre-assessments with kindergarten teachers.

“These pre-assessments will help us determine the best possible classroom placements for the students and ensure a happy beginning to their K-12 experience,” said Sweeney.

Even though McDowell Mountain only receives funding from the State for half-day kindergarten, the school offers free, full-day schooling. The option of half-day kindergarten is still available for parents who wish to choose that option.

Registration for McDowell’s preschool program will also be available to complete at the Roundup. Preschool staff, including MMES certified teachers, will be on hand to answer any questions parents have about the program or enrollment

It is not a requirement for parents to bring their future preschooler to the Roundup but parents who do can fill out their enrollment packs while their child plays under staff supervision.