Public Education System
Registering your child for public school in Connecticut involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth enrollment process. First, you must identify the appropriate school based on your residence, as Connecticut public schools are divided into districts. You will need to gather necessary documentation, including proof of residency, your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and any previous school records. It’s important to check specific district requirements, as they may vary. Most districts offer online registration forms, but you may also need to visit the school in person to complete the process. Early registration is recommended to ensure your child can begin school on time and to allow for any additional evaluations or placement tests that may be required
Regional Education Service Centers
Connecticut established six regional service centers, each one with a mission to promote the success of the area school districts and their communities by providing educational and related services. Each regional center website provides information and links to member school districts and schools.
North Haven
Trumbull
Hampton
Hartford Area
Litchfield Area
Old Lyme
Private Schools
Both independent and parochial private schools have a long and successful history in Connecticut. Parents who are interested in private-school alternatives can begin researching the available institutions with the help of the following resources:
Connecticut Association of Independent Schools
National Association of Independent Schools
Catholic Education
Hartford Archdiocese
Norwich Diocese
Magnet & Charter Schools
Magnet schools, serving Pre-K through 12th grade, provide publicly funded education with a specialized theme or focus, while charter schools, developed by the state, are nonsectarian public schools organized as nonprofit corporations and operate independently from local or regional boards of education.
