Indian Prairie Family Newsletter
February 23, 2026
Every Child, Every Opportunity, Every time !
School Vision: Our vision here at Indian Prairie is to provide an academically rigorous, structured, literacy-focused learning environment where all students strive to meet high expectations while acting peaceful, attentive, cooperative and kind.
School Mission: The Mission of Indian Prairie Elementary School is to create an environment that nurtures young children to be responsible, productive, life-long learners and to promote high academic achievement, family participation, community involvement and an exemplary staff and encourage the unique abilities of each student
Principal's Corner
Dear Indian Prairie Families,
I hope this newsletter reaches you in good health and high spirits. We have experienced an exhilarating month, and we are eager to share the exciting developments and upcoming activities with you.
We look forward to your participation and hope these activities will enrich your experience with us.
Thank you once again for your continued support and engagement with our school community.
Warm regards,
Ms. Nelson
Principal, Indian Prairie
Kindergarten and PEEP Orientation
Students who will be five years old by Sept. 1 may enroll in kindergarten. Waivers for students will be available in early March for students who will be five between Sept. 1 and Dec. 1. All schools offer full-day kindergarten. Students are initially assigned to schools based on their home addresses. Enrollment forms may be completed at elementary schools.
Documents needed to enroll in Kalamazoo Public Schools:
Original certified birth certificate. All new enrollees, in any grade, are required to provide the district with a certified birth certificate within 30 days of enrolling. If the parent/legal guardian fails to provide a birth certificate within 30 days, the district is required by law to notify law enforcement. The original birth certificate should have a raised seal.
Immunization record. A copy of the student's immunization records signed by a physician or health facility must be provided. Since 1978, state law requires each new entrant to the school district to present a certificate of current immunization at the time of registration or by no later than the first day of school. In addition to the documents listed above, kindergarten students must provide proof of hearing and vision screening and of a dental assessment . Visit the Kindergarten Health Services Page for more information.
Court papers allocating parental rights and responsibilities, or custody. (if appropriate)
Two pieces of proof of residency. Students must reside with a parent or legal guardian who resides in the Kalamazoo Public School district (or they must be accepted by the district as a School of Choice 105/105c student). Proof of residency is mandatory and can consist of the following documents — as long as they list the parent or guardian’s name and street address and are dated within the last 30 days.
- Lease agreement
- Home purchase agreement
- Rent receipt
- Utility bill
Reading at Home
Reading aloud is one of the most important things parents can do with their children. Engaging in literacy activities at home can help develop your child’s reading ability, comprehension and language skills, and improve your child’s interest in reading, attitude toward reading, and focus. Studies have shown that children who are read to regularly are more likely to develop early literacy skills, such as rhyming, letter recognition, and phonemic awareness (hearing the sounds in spoken words). These skills are essential for becoming a skilled reader and success in school. According to the Child Research and Study Center, it's recommended that elementary aged students should read for 15-20 minutes daily.
Literacy Night
February 25th 4:30-6pm
We are excited to welcome each family to our upcoming Literacy Night. Literacy nigh will take place in the gym and the cafeteria. This event promises an engaging experience for students as they participate in a variety of games that combine sports, reading, and fun.
During Literacy Night, we will officially launch our Read-A-Thon. This initiative aims to foster a love of reading among students through a supportive and enjoyable environment. Each student will receive a comprehensive Read-A-Thon package, which includes detailed information about the event, a copy of the "Kenna Ford" book, and a notebook for tracking their progress. Additionally, the package will contain various exciting materials designed to enhance the reading experience
Dates to Remember
Feb. 25th- Literacy night 4:30-6 (Gym & Cafeteria)
Feb. 27th- Mid-Winter break no school
March 2nd-6th- Read-A-Thon
March 4th- PEEP and Kinder orientation 9:30 and 5:30
March 19th- No students District PD
March 20th- No students records day
March 24th- Parent Teacher Conferences 4-8
March 25th-Parent Teacher Conferences 4-8
March 26th-Parent Teacher Conferences 12-4
March 27th- No School
March 30th- April 3rd-Spring Break

