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Young 5s

Children enter school with a variety of experiences. We offer options to meet their individual needs. Younger learners who turn 5 between June 1 and December 1 may be a good fit for our Young 5s program. We are glad to accept the Michigan waiver for incoming Kindergarten and Young 5s students. This waiver allows students 5 years old on or before December 1st to apply for either grade level.

We created Young 5s to support younger learners who may benefit from a transitional year. Children adjust to the social and academic demands of school in a fun, hands-on environment. Young 5s provides ‘the gift of time’ so younger learners can succeed in Kindergarten. Teachers help them develop social, motor and academic skills necessary to prosper in a regular kindergarten class. Students who complete their first year in the Young  5s program will be promoted to the regular kindergarten program the following year.

If your child is ready for a more rigorous program, then Kindergarten may be the right choice. Kindergarten moves at a faster pace than Young 5s. Children should enter Kindergarten with the basic personal, social, emotional, motor and academic skills necessary to succeed in school. We know it can be a difficult decision, so we provide options to help you choose what’s best for your child.

Two kids with glasses

When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?

If you're wondering when your child can start kindergarten, you're not alone! Every state has its own age requirements for starting kindergarten, and they vary.

NHA operates schools with kindergarten programs across nine states. Use our kindergarten calculator to help determine when your child can start kindergarten at an NHA school.
Kindergarten Calculator

Curriculum

English Language Arts
Curriculum

English Language Arts

English Language Arts

Children learn to identify and sound out letters and words. Retelling stories helps children learn to communicate clearly, and build active listening skills. Writing skills progress from letters to simple phonetic spellings.

Math
Curriculum

Math

Math

Children learn basic number concepts like counting, number value, and basic addition using real objects. We study and identify shapes to build geometry skills. Students also learn the days of the week, and how to use money.

Science
Curriculum

Bookcase

Science

Building on their natural desire to explore, children learn how to identify and use their five senses. Using their senses, they observe and gather information, studying themes like plants and animals. As young scientists, they describe similarities and differences found in the natural world.

Social Studies
Curriculum

Social Studies

Social Studies

Learning about communities, students discover the roles and virtues of good citizenship. We practice these skills in the classroom and community.

Specials
Curriculum

Specials

Specials

Children study art, music, physical education and technology.

child raising her hand


Advanced Learning Program  


We offer advanced learning opportunities for top-performing students who are ready to progress beyond grade level.

 
More on EXCEL-ERATE

We're More Than Academics

Strong hearts and minds impact the world in amazing ways. Virtues such as respect, perseverance, compassion, and courage are essential to what kids need to succeed and an essential part of what we teach. We make them part of every school day. This helps students learn the importance of making good decisions and doing the right thing in life. Moral Focus is so integrated into everything we do:

  • We created a curriculum specifically around Moral Focus.
  • We celebrate a “virtue of the month” every month.
  • Our students create a class contract where students agree how to treat their teacher and each other.
  • Students are recognized and celebrated for how they live out Moral Focus every day.

Parent

I love the emphasis on moral focus each month. Not only is my child receiving an education, but you are also teaching her qualities to be a good person.

Monthly Virtues

Wisdom Badge

Wisdom

Use good judgment to make decisions

Respect Badge

Respect

Treat others the way you want to be treated

Gratitude Badge

Gratitude

Appreciate the kindness and generosity of others

Self-control badge

Self-control

Manage your emotions and behavior to stay calm

Perseverance Badge

Perseverance

Persist through difficulties until you reach your goal

Courage Badge

Courage

Despite fear, do what you believe is right

Encouragement badge

Encouragement

Motivate others to have confidence in themselves

Compassion Badge

Compassion

Help and care for others during times of need

Integrity Badge

Integrity

Do what is right, honorable, and good

Collage of kids in classrooms

Traditional School or Homeschool?

The decision between enrolling your child into a traditional school versus homeschooling can be difficult. It usually depends on the student and family's needs and preferences. Here at National Heritage Academies (NHA), we know how important this decision can be and want to help you and your family make the right decision. Keep reading to learn more about what an NHA-partner school education means for your child.
Learn More About NHA's Approach

Preparing your child for a lifetime of success

See what happens when hard work, personal responsibility, and a nurturing school community combine to create one exceptional experience. Founded on academic excellence, moral focus, parental partnership, and student responsibility, Oakside Prep Academy is a school like no other—one that can lead your child to a lifetime of success.

Apply Today

We can't wait to share in your child's journey! Apply online, in person or over the phone, and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way. We are here for you!

Apply Today!