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Welcome to Kindergarten at Oak Ridge

The District 196 kindergarten program provides an environment where each child is respected as a unique individual. It responds to differences, special needs, interests, temperaments and learning styles. The atmosphere in the classroom is nurturing and inviting. Kindergarten instruction encourages the growth of problem solving, decision making and communication skills, and supports cooperative learning, socialization, healthy self-esteem and creativity.

Growth occurs as children actively participate in concrete, hands-on activities each day. Teachers determine the activities based on the children in their classroom and curriculum frameworks. Children have opportunities to assume increasing responsibilities for self-care and independence.

The kindergarten program fosters important connections between home, school and the community. This is most effective when families and teachers work cooperatively to encourage and support children as they learn and strive to reach their full potential.

At Oak Ridge we strive to nurture the whole child: academically, socially, physically and emotionally. Kindergarten creates a strong foundation for lifelong learning and allows children to gain confidence in friendships, leadership and academics.

 

Welcome to Kindergarten in District 196!

We have 20 outstanding elementary schools, all of which provide excellent teachers and an engaging curriculum in language arts, math, social studies and science. In addition, students attend music, physical education and library/media classes. The information below provides resources to help prepare all incoming kindergarten families.

This is indeed an exciting time for both children and families. We want your child’s experience in District 196 to be positive and rewarding. We hope this page is informative and answers some of your questions regarding kindergarten. You are also an important part of this process. We look forward to being part of your child’s exciting journey!

View the Welcome to Kindergarten Booklet for important information about preparing your child for kindergarten, personal safety, what a typical day of kindergarten looks like and what you can expect your child to learn.

 

Timeline of Important Dates

  • May 1, 2025 - Immunizations due to school nurse
  • August 2025 - Transportation information sent to households
  • August 27 & 28, 2025 - Literacy Assessments
  • September 2, 2025 - First day of school for all elementary students

4350 Johnny Cake Ridge Road
Eagan, MN 55122

Office: 651-683-6970
Fax: 651-683-6873
Absence Line: 651-683-6969 ext. 82764
ORAbsence@district196.org
See page 10 of the Welcome to Kindergarten 2024 Booklet for additional attendance information.

Cathy Kindem, Principal
651-683-6970
Cathy.Kindem@district196.org

Jamie Barton, Assistant Administrator
651-683-6970
Jamie.Barton@district196.org

Samantha Krumrie, Nurse
651-683-8593
Samantha.Crumrie@district196.org

District Website: www.district196.org | School Website: or.district196.org

School Office Hours: 7:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Teacher Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Student Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3:50 p.m.

Early Childhood Health and Development Screening

If your child has not been screened, call the number below to schedule an appointment. There is no charge for screening.

School District 196
Early Childhood Health and Development Screening District Service Center
14301 Diamond Path West
Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124

Phone: 651-423-7899
Call Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. to make an appointment

Mark Fehlandt

Mark Fehlandt

Kindergarten Teacher
Abigail Gadek

Abigail Gadek

Kindergarten Teacher
Aileen Rojas Duarte

Aileen Rojas Duarte

Kindergarten Teacher
Madalyn Thome

Madalyn Thome

Kindergarten Teacher
Aubrey Torkelson

Aubrey Torkelson

Kindergarten Teacher