First Grade
Expanding with Purpose. Growing with Heart.
DKH Academy is proud to expand our offerings into early elementary education with the launch of First Grade in Fall 2025, followed by Second Grade in Fall 2026.
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This next step in our school’s journey is grounded in who we’ve always been—a trusted, play-based, family-centered school serving our community since 1979. As local public school options shift, and the demand for small, high-quality elementary programs rises, we see a unique opportunity to meet this need in a DKH way: with warmth, intentionality, and excellence.
Our First Grade program will:
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Maintain small class sizes (maximum of 16 students)
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Employ degreed, experienced teachers who understand the developmental needs of young learners
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Blend guided reading, hands-on STEM, and creative exploration
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Continue beloved DKH enrichment: Spanish Immersion, KidFit, Art, Music, and outdoor learning
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Prioritize connection, confidence, and curiosity
This is More than Just a New Grade
Students will learn in a newly remodeled space on campus, with access to a growing STEM Lab, a dedicated gross motor area, and a program structure designed to ensure smooth transitions between academic blocks and playful movement.
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DKH will continue to pursue the highest standards, including dual accreditation through Cognia and NAEYC.
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This is more than just a new grade—it’s a thoughtful, mission-aligned expansion of the experience that so many families already know and love.
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Will tuition increase for elementary grades?While there may be a slight increase to reflect the expanded offerings, we are committed to keeping tuition affordable and competitive, with financial support options under exploration.
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Will DKH still feel like a small school?Absolutely. DKH will always prioritize a close-knit, community-based atmosphere. First Grade classes will be limited in size, and students will learn in an environment where they are truly known, seen, and supported.
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Who will be teaching the First Grade class?Our First Grade teachers will be degreed, experienced educators who understand early childhood development and align with our values. Many of our teachers have been at DKH for over a decade!
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What subjects or programs will First Grade students participate in?Students will enjoy core academic subjects alongside engaging enrichment opportunities such as: Spanish Immersion KidFit (Physical Education) Art & Music STEM Lab Guided Reading & Creative Writing
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Can current DKH students enroll in First Grade?Yes! Our current Senior Kindergarten students will receive priority enrollment.
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How many students will be in each class?Class sizes will be small, with a maximum of 16 students per First Grade class.
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What makes the DKH First Grade program unique?Our program blends academic excellence with our signature play-based approach, small class sizes, and a joyful, hands-on learning environment. First Grade students will benefit from a child-centered curriculum designed to support cognitive, emotional, and social growth.
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When will the First Grade program begin?Our first-ever First Grade class will launch in Fall 2025, with plans to add Second Grade in Fall 2026.
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Is the program accredited?Yes! DKH Academy is currently accredited by NAEYC, and we are pursuing dual accreditation through Cognia and NAEYC to ensure the highest educational standards for our growing program.
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What are our classroom Staff : Child ratios?
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What are the educator requirements?All educators at DKH Academy possess a passion for early childhood education and a heart for children. Beyond that, every preschool teacher through kindergarten has earned a four-year degree in higher education, most are teacher certified or have a degree in an applicable field pertaining to child development or education. Continuing education is a yearly focus and requirement to ensure best practices and innovative approaches in the classroom.
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What security measures are in place at DKH Academy?DKH Academy continuously invests in campus security, with ongoing attention to staff training and support from our local Police Department. Measures include monitored video surveillance, robust security doors, badge access at all entry points with intercoms at primary entrances, campus paging, phones in every classroom, lockable classroom doors and safe arrival and dismissal processes add to your peace of mind when choosing DKH as your child’s school.
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How can parents get involved in their child’s school experience?DKH Parent Teacher Organization is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to encourage family engagement by offering many volunteer opportunities throughout the school year, while providing financial support to maintain our high standards across all areas of providing the best early childhood education.
First Grade Application Process
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Submit the Inquiry & Enrollment Interest Form
This tells us you're interested and ensures you receive all updates about next steps. Submit the form here.
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Attend a Parent Info Session (Optional)
Meet our leadership team, explore our learning environment, and ask any questions about the new First Grade program.
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Complete the Full Application
You’ll receive the full application and a Reference Form to pass along to your child’s current school or teacher. Application fee is due at this time.
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Admission Steps
Attend family interview
Observation-based assessments
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Receive Admission Decision
Decisions will be shared by email, followed by a personal phone call.
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Accept and Enroll
Submit enrollment paperwork and choose payment option to secure your child’s seat in our Founding First Grade Class.
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Spring Milestones
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April 2025
Inquiry Form Opens
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Submit the form to express interest and receive next steps.
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April 15 - May 31, 2025
Application Window​
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Submit the application and reference forms during this time.
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May 3, 2025
Admission Assessment Day​
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A chance for us to get to know your child through classroom-style activities and conversation.
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April 1, 2025
Parent Info Night (DKH Families)​
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An informational evening for currently enrolled families.
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Late April / Early May
Parent Info Night (New Families)
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For prospective families exploring DKH First Grade.
Summer Milestones
01
June 15, 2025
Admission Notifications
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Families will be contacted via email and phone.
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July 2025
Second Round Consideration (If space allows)​
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Limited space may be available after the priority window closes.
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September 2, 2025
First Day of School​
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The very first day of our Founding First Grade Class!
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June 30, 2025
Enrollment Commitment Due​
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Reserve your seat with enrollment paperwork and deposit.
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August 2025
Welcome Event
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Get to know fellow First Grade families before school begins