Registration
Registration is handled at your neighborhood school or nearby enrollment service center. Be sure to bring parental ID, proof of residency, a birth certificate and/or Social Security number for your child, immunization records, and transcripts from the child's previous school. Children registering for kindergarten must turn 5 years old before midnight Aug. 31, although some districts offer limited exceptions. And one more important factor: register on time.

School Choice
Most Puget Sound districts have liberal policies on school transfers, though the state does not mandate school choice. However, parents are usually responsible for transporting their children to schools other than those assigned. Also, popular schools often fill up fast, so some transfers can be difficult. It's always a good idea to have a runner-up in mind in case your first choice is not available.

School Calendar
Each school district has its own calendar that lists offical holidays, teacher workshops, breaks and the first and last day of class. Be sure to get aquainted with yours, so you'll be prepared when the kids have a day off.
• Seattle Schools 2002-2003 calendar

Immunizations
Immunization records must show dates of all required vaccines. For children entering kindergarten, those are: hepatitis B, DPT/DT/TD, polio, measles (Rubeola), German measles (Rubella), and mumps. Exemptions are allowed for medical, religious or philosophical reasons. For more specifics, see our Immunization Guide.

Medicines at School
No medication -- including non-prescription drugs -- can be taken at school without a parent's signature and written directions from a doctor.

School Closures
Ice and snow may occasionally force Puget Sound schools to close; such closures will be announced by each district via the local media. Find out in advance what procedures your school will use in case an early closure is required.

Dress Codes
There is no statewide dress code, but some districts and schools have adopted their own, and uniforms are growing in popularity. Best bet is to check with your school.

Conduct
Many communities are cracking down on disruptive and violent behavior in the schools. Consult your district on the local policy on suspensions, expulsions and other disciplinary measures.

Supplies
Beyond the basics -- pencils, backpack, lunch box -- check with your child's teacher. Your child will likely bring home a list of any required materials during the first week of school.

Graduation Requirements
Each district has its own credit requirements for high school graduation. Call your school or district to make sure your child is on track to graduate.

Parent-Teacher Associations
Each school has its own PTA, affiliated with the state Parent-Teacher Association. Your school will be happy to fill you in on the meeting times and dates.

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