Registering a child for the Bensalem Township School District (BTSD) is not as simple as just walking into the nearest elementary school. Because the district is strict about residency (checking to make sure you actually live here), the process is centralized and document-heavy.
Whether you just moved to town or have a rising Kindergartner, here is the step-by-step process to get them enrolled.
The “Golden Rule”: Residency is Everything
Bensalem takes residency verification very seriously. If you cannot prove you live in the 19020 (and specifically within the township borders), your child cannot attend.
- The Standard: You typically need 4 separate documents proving where you live.
- The Catch: All documents must have your name and your current address.
Step 1: The Online Pre-Registration
Do not drive to the administration building yet. You must start online.
- Go to the Bensalem School District Central Registration Page.
- Create an account in the Skyward portal (the student information system).
- Fill out the digital forms (Emergency contacts, health history, etc.).
- The Result: At the end of this process, you will schedule an in-person appointment.
Step 2: The Documents (The Checklist)
You must bring original copies of these documents to your appointment. If you are missing one, you will likely have to reschedule.
A. Proof of Child’s Identity
- Original Birth Certificate (or valid Passport).
B. Proof of Residency (You need ONE from List A and TWO from List B)
- List A (The Big Stuff): Current Deed, Mortgage Statement, or a Current Lease Agreement (signed by landlord and tenant).
- List B (The Bills): Current utility bill (PECO/Aqua/Comcast), valid Driver’s License with current address, vehicle registration, or current pay stub.
C. Health Records
- Immunization Record: Must be signed by a doctor. (PA Law requires shots for Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella before the first day).
- Physical Exam Form: Required for Kindergarten/new entry.
- Dental Form: Required for Kindergarten/new entry.
Step 3: The “Central Registration” Appointment
You do not go to the local elementary school for this. All registration happens at the central office.
- Where: The Dorothy D. Call Administrative Center
- Address: 3000 Donallen Drive, Bensalem, PA 19020 (This is the building right next to Bensalem High School).
- What happens: You will meet with a registrar who reviews your documents. If everything is approved, they will assign your child to their home school.
Special Section: Kindergarten Rules
- The Age Cutoff: Your child must be 5 years old on or before September 1st of the current school year. There are generally no exceptions to this state mandate.
- The Schedule: Bensalem offers Full-Day Kindergarten at all elementary schools.
Common Questions & “Pro Tips”
- “I live with my parents, so I don’t have a lease.”
- You need a Multiple Occupancy Affidavit. The homeowner (your parent) must come with you to the appointment and provide their proof of ownership, and you must get the form notarized.
- “Which Elementary School will my kid go to?”
- Bensalem has 6 elementary schools (Belmont, Cornwells, Faust, Rush, Struble, Valley). Assignments are based on your street address. You can verify your school zone on the district website before you buy/rent a home.
- “Can I request a different school?”
- Generally, no. Unless there is a specific Special Education program required that is only housed at a specific building, students must attend their neighborhood school.
Sources & Official Links
- Official BTSD Registration Portal – Use this for the latest forms and Skyward link.
- PA Department of Health School Immunizations – The state laws on required vaccines.
- Bensalem Elementary School Zone Map – Use the “School Locator” tool on the district site.
