Young 5’s · Portage, Michigan
One more year to grow, right before kindergarten begins.
Young 5’s at Oakland Academy gives four- and five-year-olds a gentle, unhurried bridge between preschool and kindergarten — small classes, patient teachers, and a whole extra year to build confidence.
Download Oakland Academy’s Brochure
Fill out the form to receive a detailed brochure about what makes the educational experience at our school so unique.
– Academic Programs
– School Culture and Community
– Parent Testimonials
– How to enroll
Is Young 5’s Right For My Child?
For the kids who just need a little more time.
Every child grows at their own pace. If your four- or five-year-old could use another year before the pace of kindergarten, Young 5’s is built exactly for that — same warm building, same small-school feel, no pressure.
Birthday just missed the cutoff
One of the most common reasons families choose Young 5’s — a few extra months makes a real difference
Still working on the basics
Letters, numbers, scissors, sitting still for circle time — Young 5’s gives it room to click
A teacher or preschool suggested it
Trust that insinct. It’s almost always about timing, never ability
You want a smaller, calmer classroom
Small class sizes mean your child is known by name from day one, not one of thirty.
Qualifications
To qualify for Young 5’s or Kindergarten, your child must be of age 5 before December 1.
A Small Close-Knit School Built Around Every Child
Why Families Choose Oakland Academy
Oakland Academy has served Portage, Kalamazoo, and the surrounding community since 1998 — as a tuition free alternative to larger, traditional schools.
Small Class Sizes
More one-on-one time, more engaged students, more cohesive classrooms.
Weekly Progress Reports
You’ll know exactly how your child is doing every singe Friday — no surprises.
Chartered by GVSU
Oakland Academy is chartered by GVSU
Tuition Free
A public charter academy — no tuition, open enrollment for Michigan families.
Character-First Teaching
Character education and positive communication are woven into every day.
Open to Michigan Residents
Families from Protage, Kalamazoo, and beyond are welcome to apply.
Ready when you are
Applications for the coming school year are open now for Young5’s through 8th grade.