Howard County public school officials are urging families who are new to the county or have a child entering school for the first time this fall to register the child at their local school as soon as possible. The first day of classes is Aug. 25. Kindergarten is mandatory for children who are 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, according to officials. The school system requires the following original documents at the time of registration:

» Proof of residency

Homeowners must present a deed with all the required signatures along with one of the following: a current cable bill, bill for non-cellular phone service, or gas or electric bill. If a house was recently purchased, signed settlement papers may be submitted and a signed deed may be presented within 30 days of enrollment. For renters, an original, signed lease must be presented, along with one of the following: a current cable bill, bill for non-cellular phone service, or gas or electric bill.

» Proof of student's date of birth

The acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a hospital or physician's certificate, a church or baptismal certificate or a passport or military identification.

» Proof of parent identity

The acceptable documents include a driver's license, passport, Motor Vehicle Administration identification or other legal form of photographic identification.

» Proof of parental relationship or custody

The acceptable documents include a birth certificate that identifies the parents, a court order, separation or divorce decree or other legal identification.

» Proof of emancipation, when applicable

» Proof of current student immunization

The student's Social Security number is requested but not required.

Registration takes place at the family's local school. Parents who are unsure of which is their local school may check the school locator on the school system's Web site, www.hcpss.org.

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