The West Plains R-VII School District is dedicated to preparing all children for kindergarten and is actively working on innovative strategies to meet families’ needs and educate a significant number of 4-year-olds. Research confirms that early investment in children yields substantial advantages, enhancing not only academic and cognitive abilities but also fostering social and emotional skills, language proficiency, and adaptability essential for kindergarten readiness.
For the 2024-2025 school year, West Plains Elementary will host one full-day preschool class and two half-day preschool classes. South Fork Elementary will continue to be a full-day preschool with one class.
Preschool Screenings
Preschool screenings for South Fork Elementary and West Plains Elementary will be held on Thursday, April 11, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and on Friday, April 12, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the West Plains Civic Center. The screenings are by appointment only and are free to any child in the West Plains School District who will be four years old before August 1, 2024.
Kindergarten Screenings
Kindergarten screenings are free to any child in the West Plains School District who will be five years old before August 1, 2024. Children will have the opportunity to interact with the kindergarten staff and play games that assess their fine and gross motor skills and their language and concept skills. The screenings will be held on Wednesday, April 10, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and on Thursday, April 11, from 8:00 am. – 12:00 pm. at the West Plains Civic Center. Screenings are by appointment only.
The Howell County Health Department will be on-site for immunizations.
To schedule an appointment, call:
West Plains Elementary – 417-256-6158
South Fork Elementary – 417-256-2836
Please provide:
*A Birth Certificate
*Immunization Records
*Proof of Residency