Understanding Ohio’s New Kindergarten and Preschool Age Requirements

Starting school is a big milestone for every family. Here’s what you need to know about Ohio’s updated age rules for kindergarten and preschool.

Ohio law establishes age requirements for when children may begin kindergarten. House Bill 114 (HB 114) updates these requirements to create a consistent approach across all Ohio school districts.

Cincinnati Public Schools is sharing this information to help families and community members understand how age requirements work and what options are available when planning for early learning and kindergarten.
 

Kindergarten Age Requirement

Under HB 114, all Ohio kindergarten students must be 5 years old on or before the first day of school, rather than Sept. 30.

Kindergarten Early Admission

Students who will turn 5 years old after the first day of school, but on or before Sept. 30, will be permitted to request early admission to kindergarten for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. The first day of school for 2026-27 school year is Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, and Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2027 for the 2027-28 school year. 

If you wish to enroll your student in kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year, please contact Tammy Brock, Enrollment Support Specialist, at brockta@cpsboe.k12.oh.us. You must contact Ms. Brock to verify kindergarten enrollment. If you do not wish to enroll in kindergarten, your student may be eligible for an additional year of preschool. Please contact Michelle Lucas, Early Childhood Specialist, at lucasmi@cpsboe.k12.oh.us or 513-363-0258 to discuss options for the 2026-27 school year. 

Preschool Age Requirement

Beginning with the 2026–27 school year, children must be 3 years old on or before the first day of school to enroll in preschool.

We understand that this change may affect how families plan for the years ahead. Cincinnati Public Schools is committed to supporting families through this transition and helping our families make the best decision for their student. 

If you have questions or need assistance, our enrollment team is here to help. Please contact our Customer Care Center at 513-363-0123. 

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What does House Bill 114 do?

• House Bill 114 establishes a consistent statewide age requirement for kindergarten enrollment.

When do these changes take effect?

• HB 114 takes effect March 20, 2026. As part of the implementation process, CPS is offering early admission to kindergarten for affected students for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. 

What is the kindergarten age requirement?

• Children must be 5 years old on or before the first day of school to enroll in kindergarten.

What is kindergarten early admission?

• CPS Board Policy 5112 permits students who will turn 5 years old after the first day of school, but on or before Sept. 30, for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years to be granted early admission to kindergarten. Children who will turn 5 years old after Sept. 30, but before Jan. 1, must request an evaluation for kindergarten acceleration. 

Is there a new age requirement for preschool?

• Yes. Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, children must be 3 years old on or before the first day of school to enroll in preschool.

When is the first day of school?

• The first day of school for the 2026-27 school year is Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026. The first day of school for the 2027-28 school year is Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2027.

Who do I contact for questions about enrollment?

• For questions regarding kindergarten enrollment, please call the CPS Customer Care Center at 513-363-0123. 
• For questions regarding preschool enrollment, please call 513-363-0123 and select option 5.