Sunny Start Helps Young Learners Begin Kindergarten With Confidence

The Hazelwood School District is excited to welcome incoming kindergarten students and their families to Sunny Start, a free summer program designed to help children feel confident, comfortable, and ready for their first day of kindergarten.

Sunny Start is available at all Hazelwood School District elementary schools and is open to students who will be starting kindergarten this August. The program focuses on helping children build familiarity with school routines, make new friends, and develop early learning skills in a fun, supportive environment.

“Sunny Start gives our youngest learners a positive first experience with school,” said Catherine Wrisley, director of federal programs and special services. “By spending time in a real classroom with caring teachers, students can start kindergarten feeling excited, confident, and prepared for success.”

Program Details

• Cost: Free
• Who Can Attend: Students starting kindergarten this August who turn five before August 1, 2026
• Dates: June 3–June 25
• Schedule: Mondays through Thursdays, 8:50 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• Length: Four weeks
• Location: All Hazelwood elementary school sites
• Transportation: Provided; students ride the same buses as elementary students

How to Register

Registration is now open. Families can sign up by selecting the Sunny Start option during the 2026–2027 school year registration process in Campus Parent. Students must be in compliance with immunization requirements and residency documents must be current and fulfilled.

Sunny Start is a wonderful opportunity for children to ease into kindergarten while families connect with their school community. Hazelwood School District encourages parents and guardians to take advantage of this engaging and supportive program and register early.

For further information, please contact Catherine Wrisley at cwrisley@hazelwoodschools.org.