Getting Ready for Kindergarten in Surprise, AZ: A Parent’s Guide
If you’re looking for a high-quality kindergarten program near Surprise, El Mirage, or greater Phoenix, Arizona Charter Academy (ACA) is here to help your child thrive. Our tuition-free, full-day kindergarten is designed to give your child a strong academic foundation while nurturing a love of learning from day one.
As a well-respected charter school serving families across multiple grades—including elementary school, middle school, and high school—ACA offers a unique and supportive environment focused on excellence in academics, character, and leadership.
A Kindergarten Program Built for Success
At ACA, kindergarten is so much more than the ABCs. Our program supports early childhood development while preparing students to be lifelong learners.
We use nationally aligned curriculum tools, including:
English Language Arts with CKLA
Our Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) program is built on phonics instruction, helping kids connect letter sounds and symbols from the very start. This research-based approach builds strong readers through storytelling, small group work, and comprehension strategies. Students explore fiction and nonfiction and practice oral storytelling—a key stepping stone in writing development.
Math with Zearn
Rather than relying on memorization, our math curriculum teaches how numbers work in the real world. Zearn helps students build number sense and problem-solving skills through visuals, repetition, and hands-on activities. Plus, families can support learning at home with in-person and online access.
By December, most of our kindergarten students are reading confidently!
What Makes ACA Kindergarten Different?
Kindergarten That’s Ready for the Future
Our kindergarten class is aligned with state and national academic standards, preparing students to succeed not only in the current year but also in 1st grade and beyond. We focus on academic growth, character development, and consistent routines to create confident learners.
Early Kindergarten Program
If your child turns 5 between October 1 and December 31, they may qualify for our Early Kindergarten program. This full-time option is ideal for younger students who are ready for the challenge. It’s not a pre-kindergarten or preschool class—students in this program can be promoted to 1st grade the following year if they’re ready.
Space is limited, and a waitlist will begin once the class fills. Families in Surprise, El Mirage, and nearby areas like Canyon Ridge should enroll now to secure their child’s spot.
A Day in the Life: Learning Through Play and Practice
ACA students enjoy daily learning experiences beyond the core subjects. Specials like art, music, and P.E. are part of every school day. Students build creativity and gross motor skills, all while having fun.
We also incorporate:
- Hands-on history activities, like making colonial crafts or reading Stone Soup
- The Lucy Calkins writing method, which helps students express ideas through drawing, dictation, and early writing
- After school clubs and activities (as students get older)
ACA emphasizes systems and routines, like practicing transitions from carpet to desk, which build confidence and save up to 100 hours of instructional time each year!
Childcare and Support for Families
We understand the challenge of balancing work and parenting. That’s why we support families with reliable, structured options throughout the day:
- Full-time kindergarten with extended learning hours
- After school support
- Access to online tools like Starfall for at-home enrichment
Our goal is to be more than a daycare or childcare option—we’re your partner in your child’s growth and success.
Family Resources: Free Kindergarten Readiness Kit
Whether your child is coming from preschool, pre-kindergarten, or home, ACA offers support even before the first day of school. Families can request a free Kindergarten Readiness Kit, which includes:
- Alphabet and number tracing
- Counting practice (0–10)
- Fine motor activities like finger painting and playdough
- Digital resources like Starfall
You’ll also receive biweekly tips to prepare your child for a smooth transition into our kindergarten class.
Transparent Progress: Testing & Parent Access
We track student growth through benchmark testing four times a year. Parents receive updates in real time and are encouraged to celebrate their child’s progress. Our assessments help guide small group instruction and ensure no student falls behind.
If you’ve explored options like Legacy Traditional School or your local school district, we invite you to tour our campus and experience the ACA difference firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is ACA part of a school district?
No. ACA is a tuition-free charter school, open to all Arizona families. We serve students from preschool through high school, depending on availability.
Q: Do you offer early drop-off or extended day programs?
Yes. We aim to support working families with flexible options that go beyond traditional daycare or childcare.
Q: What if my child has never been to preschool?
No problem. Many ACA kindergarteners come from home or childcare settings. Our staff is experienced in helping children adjust and feel confident.
Q: How do I get in touch?
Call our phone number at (623) 974-4959 or visit our campus in Surprise, AZ. Families from El Mirage, Phoenix, Canyon Ridge, and other nearby areas are welcome to enroll now!
Come See the ACA Difference
Choosing the right elementary school for your child’s first big academic step is a big decision. At ACA, we combine strong academics with a nurturing environment, providing a kindergarten program designed for growth, joy, and lasting success.
📍 Arizona Charter Academy
16025 N. Dysart Rd, Surprise, AZ 85374
📞 (623) 974-4959
Visit us today or enroll now for the upcoming school year. Let’s give your child a strong start—together.