Virginia Beach School Starting Age: What Parents Need to Know

Wondering when your child can walk into a Virginia Beach classroom? The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number, but the rules are clear enough to help you plan ahead. In most cases, kids can start kindergarten at age five, but there are a few extra details that affect preschool and early‑learning programs.

What Age Do Kids Begin Kindergarten?

Virginia Beach follows the state’s cut‑off date of September 1. If your child turns five on or before that date, they’re eligible for kindergarten that school year. Kids born after September 1 usually wait a year, unless you apply for a waiver.

Many families choose a preschool program for children aged three to four. These programs aren’t mandatory, but they’re a great way to build social skills and basic literacy before kindergarten. Local preschools often have rolling admissions, so you can enroll as soon as your child hits three.

For parents who think their child is ready early, the Virginia Department of Education allows a “early entry” request. You’ll need to submit a written justification, a pediatrician’s note, and sometimes take an assessment. The school board makes the final call.

How to Register Your Child

Registration in Virginia Beach is handled through the school district’s online portal. Here’s the quick step‑by‑step:

1. Create an account on the district’s enrollment website.
2. Upload proof of residency – a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works.
3. Provide your child’s birth certificate and immunization records.
4. Choose a school zone based on your address. The portal shows the nearest options.
5. Submit the form and wait for a confirmation email. You’ll get a date for a mandatory orientation.

If you prefer to do it in person, the district office opens for registrations on the first Monday of August. Bring the same documents and a completed paper form. Staff will double‑check everything and answer any questions you have.

Don’t forget to register for transport if you need the school bus. The bus application runs at the same time as enrollment, and you’ll need a separate proof of address for that.

Once you’re accepted, you’ll receive a welcome packet with school supplies list, uniform guidelines (if applicable), and a calendar of events. Keep this packet handy—most schools require a signed agreement before your child can attend.

Quick tip: Check the district’s website for any “late enrollment” policies. Some schools have a cut‑off in early September, but they may still accept late applications if space permits.

Virginia Beach also offers a range of after‑school programs, from sports to arts. These are usually separate from the standard enrollment, so you’ll sign up later in the year.

Getting your child into school doesn’t have to be a headache. By knowing the age cut‑off, gathering the right paperwork, and using the online portal, you can lock in a spot well before the first day of class. If you run into any snags, the district’s enrollment helpline is open weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm and can walk you through each step.

Ready to start? Head to the Virginia Beach school district’s website now and create that enrollment account. The sooner you begin, the smoother the whole process will be for you and your little learner.