Enrolling in School in Pierce County

CChoosing the best academic environment for your child can seem daunting when you move to a new area. There are numerous traditional options to consider—your neighborhood public school, a charter school, or private school—in addition to alternative options, like online school or homeschool. In this era of COVID-19, parents may feel additionally worried about making the right choice for their child. Pierce County is home to 16 public school districts and several charter, private and religious school systems. Most of these offer online enrollment for new students on their district or school websites. In general, you’ll need the following information to complete an enrollment form:

• Name of the school you want to enroll your child • Emergency contact information • Healthcare provider(s) contact information • Previous school address and phone number, if applicable

To complete your child’s enrollment, most schools will also ask parents to provide:

• Proof of immunization signed by a healthcare professional • Proof of residence • Parents’ photo identification • Proof of age and legal name for the student • Previous report cards or transcripts, if applicable

The district’s website can tell you whether in-person learning is occurring. All school districts are following guidance from the Washington State Department of Health and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department about students returning to campuses for in-person learning in the 2020-2021 school year. When inperson learning is not possible due to the county’s metrics of COVID-19 cases, virtual or hybrid learning systems are being used. When it is time to return to in-person learning at school, remind your child the importance of:

• Wearing a mask over the nose and mouth • Practicing physical distancing by staying 6 feet apart from others • Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds • Letting you know if he or she feels unwell

To find your Pierce County school district, go online to matterhornago.co.pierce.wa.us/infobyaddress. Enter your address on the interactive map and then click the Additional Info tab.