AUGUST 29, 2025, BOSTON, MA — Boston Public Schools, the City of Boston, and Boston Children’s Museum, in partnership with Cradles to Crayons, welcomed hundreds of rising kindergarteners and their families on Tuesday, August 26, for the annual Countdown to Kindergarten celebration, held at Boston Children’s Museum. Incoming students and their families had the opportunity to explore the Museum exhibits, climb aboard a real school bus, meet new friends, and receive free backpacks and school supplies to kick off the school year. Among those in attendance were BPS Superintendent Mary Skipper, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Early Childhood Kristin McSwain, BPS Director of Countdown to Kindergarten Josette Williams, Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts Director of Partnerships and Engagement Katy DeMoura, and Boston Children’s Museum President and CEO Carole Charnow.
“The Countdown to Kindergarten celebration is one of the most meaningful events of the year,” said Superintendent Mary Skipper. “The excitement of our youngest learners reminds us of our responsibility to ensure every child enters school feeling supported and ready to learn. Most importantly, our families feel that their needs are understood and met. At BPS, it is our priority to partner with families so we can continue to create strong foundations for every student’s success.” The event also allowed families to connect with BPS departments, ask questions, and receive helpful resources ahead of the school year. Cradles to Crayons generously provided free backpacks filled with school supplies for all incoming kindergarten students, and families were treated to snack bags to take home.
“Supporting our youngest students and ensuring they have the best preparation for Kindergarten allows them to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Over the past few years the city has made a great effort to invest in the expansion of early childcare, Pre-K and Headstart programs in neighborhoods across Boston. We’re looking forward to another school year filled with growth and inspiration to empower every student to reach their full potential.”
The first day of kindergarten for Boston Public Schools is Monday, September 8, 2025. Families can find important updates and resources to prepare for the school year on ParentSquare, the district’s family communication platform. ParentSquare will continue to share reminders, school-specific details, and helpful information to ensure that students and families stay up to date throughout the school year.
“As the new school year begins, we look forward to creating supportive spaces for our students where they can be curious, joyful, and build strong relationships that they will carry throughout their educational journey and beyond,” said Kristin McSwain, Senior Advisor and Director Office of Early Childhood. “I’m grateful to celebrate this milestone with both our youngest learners and their families as they take their first steps into a lifetime of education.”
Countdown to Kindergarten is a partnership between BPS, City of Boston, and various community organizations that work to provide a positive and supportive transition into BPS kindergarten (K0, K1 or K2) for students and their families. The initiative offers free parent-child playgroups, provides readiness tips and opportunities, and hosts workshops and other transition activities. To learn more, call 617-635-9288 or visit their website at countdowntokindergarten.org.
“We’re incredibly grateful to come together with Boston Public Schools and Boston Children’s Museum in this longstanding partnership,” said Katy DeMoura, Director of Partnerships and Engagement for Cradles to Crayons – Massachusetts. “When we can help ensure that children in our community have the supplies and resources they need to start the school year with confidence, we’re not just supporting their education – we’re investing in their future. Events like this remind us of the power of collaboration in making a real difference for kids who need it most.”
“We are delighted to annually welcome families to Boston Children’s Museum with students who are entering Boston Public Schools for our 26th year of the Countdown to Kindergarten celebration,” said Carol Charnow, President & CEO. “This is one of our favorite experiences that highlights the first step of their education journey. We are proud to play a role in their future success.”