May 07, 2025 — The Fort Hayes Metropolitan Education Center buzzed with excitement as Columbus City Schools (CCS) hosted its annual Countdown to Kindergarten, welcoming incoming kindergartners and their families for a day of fun, learning, and connection.

“This is where the students come and get all of the information and different materials and resources that they can utilize over the summer to prepare for kindergarten,” said CCS Director of Early Childhood Education Terra Baker.

This community event served as a one-stop shop for families to get the resources they need ahead of the upcoming school year. District staff members were on hand to answer questions about enrollment, school readiness, and transportation, while children enjoyed activities that promote motor skills and early learning. 

“It’s a really great turnout,” said Alli Tambini, preschool intervention teacher at Salem Elementary School. “Here at our table, we have a math station where the kids are practicing counting to 10 with a pop-it we gave them. They’re going from station to station and getting goodies to take home to practice skills and get ready for kindergarten.”

The Fort Hayes campus was a vibrant hub of hands-on learning, filled with energy and engagement throughout the day. Families took part in exciting games and activities, enjoyed delicious food and giveaways, met storybook characters come to life, explored resources from community partners, and much more. Each family walked away with a free kindergarten readiness kit, packed with tools and materials to keep the learning going at home.

Mike Friede brought his family to the event, including his son Merek, who is set to start kindergarten in the fall at Cedarwood Elementary School. 

“Today is great. [My kids] are having a great time,” Mike said.

Merek can’t wait “to learn big numbers” in kindergarten. This event helped him and his family get excited for the upcoming school year.

The event is part of the District’s broader efforts to make the transition to school smoother and more engaging. By combining essential information with playful exploration, Countdown to Kindergarten has become a beloved tradition that kicks off a new chapter for hundreds of young learners across the city.

“This is a great event,” Tambini said. “Parents are really asking good questions, students are really able to show off some of their skills, and I think it’s really helping families have an understanding of what they can be doing over the summer to get the kids ready for kindergarten.”

For any families that were not able to attend the event, information about kindergarten registration can be found here. 

If you have any additional questions, please call the Early Childhood Education Office at (614) 365-5822.