MNPS Kindergarten Programs

Getting to Know Our Kindergarten Programs
Posted on 03/06/2023
MNPS kindergartener learns to code in Nashville's public schools

Our 70 elementary schools each offer unique and fun learning opportunities for our youngest learners – from our zoned, neighborhood schools to our thematic magnet schools, there’s an MNPS kindergarten classroom for every student and you can apply online today.

mnps kindergartener learns coding and technology in nashville's public schools

Our high-quality teaching and learning starts early – all of our kindergarten classrooms are places where students are building life-long skills for learning. Today, we’re spotlighting Tom Joy Digital Literacy and Leadership Magnet Elementary School, one of our thematic magnet schools.

Students enrolled at Tom Joy are using digital tools to increase student engagement, empower student voice and create more meaningful learning experiences. 

Each week, Tom Joy Magnet kindergartners visit the school’s computer lab led by Anson Amour, MNPS technology instructor, to introduce them to digital tools that support classroom learning. 

“Our students are tech savvy on tablets; however, this program exposes students to different pieces of technology that support their classroom studies. In the lab, students like to build things and create, and they are quick learners,” Amour said.

Recently, kindergarten students put their creative and literacy skills to the test as budding authors. All students wrote a story based on a character they created and brought those stories to life using iPads. Students customized a digital version of their character, recorded the story they wrote, and then put it all together for a custom, animated story. mnps kindergartener shows off technology and coding skills in nashville's public schools

Simultaneously, groups of students worked in a coding program that makes upper-level, advanced technology accessible to even the youngest students at the school. With accessibility as the objective, Tom Joy Magnet staff developed a grade-specific technology plan that sets digital literacy goals for the year. This allows students to appropriately build upon their skills so that by graduation they have a well-rounded technology expertise.

Next week, kindergarten classes will be rolling out Ozobots, pint-sized codable robots that allow students to get comfortable with the introductory elements of coding, innovative problem solving, and interactive exploration.

Emily Sabino, Tom Joy Magnet kindergarten teacher, is thrilled to see the digital products that her students create.

“It makes our students excited about learning. They have a product that they spent time creating that they are proud of, and they share it with others,” Sabino said. “Their work inspires and motivates others, as well.”

Ms. Sabino also sees the impact that access to digital literacy and tools has on her students’ future.

“This academic program supports a love of learning and of technology. Students become more comfortable with technology and learn how much they can do with technology. It provides students with skills that can help them through their academic pathway and one day in the workforce.”

Enroll in Kindergarten Today

Step One
  • To apply for a themed magnet school or a different optional school with available seats, complete and submit the School Options application.
  • Find your child’s zoned elementary by using the Zone Finder or by calling our Family Information Center at 615-259-INFO.
Step Two
  • Gather all required documents, which include:
  • Record of birth (birth certificate, passport, visa, I-94)
  • Tennessee Immunization Record
  • Proof of Physical
  • Proof of Davidson County residency
  • Parent/Guardian photo ID
Step Three
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