Welcome Incoming Kindergarten Families
Kindergarten Enrollment: New Age Requirement Beginning in 2027–28
Connecticut has updated its law on when children can start kindergarten. Beginning with the 2027–28 school year, all children entering kindergarten must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of the school year they are enrolling in.
Under the new CT State law (Public Act 26-1), the previous waiver option no longer exists. Starting with the 2027–28 school year, there is no waiver, exception, or appeal available — in New Fairfield or in any other Connecticut public school district.
If your child turns 5 after September 1, they will be eligible to begin kindergarten the following school year. Children already enrolled in kindergarten are not affected by this change.