8legs: Ohio department of education

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New Ohio kindergarten law changes age cutoff, leaving some families scrambling

Ohio now requires children to be five by the first day of school to enroll in kindergarten starting in 2026-27.
The change was enacted under House Bill 114 and took effect March 20, 2026.
Some districts offer a two-year transition period for early access to kindergarten.
Ridgeway Elementary in Hamilton supports the new law, citing developmental differences.
West Clermont families describe potential options like waiting, private school, or moving.
Some districts may still permit early entrance under district policies during the transition.
Cincinnati Public Schools will end the transition and enforce the new rule after the period.
Families may face higher preschool costs or relocation decisions due to the change.
Some families view the law as sensible, while others worry about readiness and access.

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