BEND, OR -- Bend-La Pine Schools is planning for a surge of new students, next fall, including an anticipated 1,100 new kindergartners. District-wide Kindergarten Round-Up takes place Wednesday at neighborhood schools when parents can meet teachers and administrators, ask questions and register students.

Events vary: Juniper Elementary is hosting an Early Learning Fair from 2:30 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, which includes crafts and free books. At Pine Ridge Elementary, parents can meet staff and tour classrooms from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Parents are encouraged to check with their local school for details.

"The round-ups April 19 are a great way for students to begin to feel connected to their neighborhood schools," says Gary Timms, Executive Director of Elementary Programs for Bend-La Pine Schools. "They also help us understand enrollment needs to make plans for teachers, classroom space and materials."

After April 19, parents can register students 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. any school day. Kids must be five-years-old prior to September first to start kindergarten.