Transitional Kindergarten Information

If you missed the TK / K Parent Orientation Night webinar, don't worry! View the slides here. Watch the video of the program here (passcode is $2^2?u*D) and also, be sure to read through the updated Q & A generated from parent's questions at the webinar.

What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Senate Bill (SB) 1381 (Chapter 705, Statues of 2010) amended California Education Code (Section 46300, 48000, and 48010) to change the required birthday for admission to kindergarten and first grade and established a transitional kindergarten program.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK):

• is a bridge between preschool and kindergarten for young children.
• is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program designed to support young 5-year-old students.
• gives young learners a head start and provides them with an opportunity to learn and grow in an environment that is tailored to meet their academic and social needs.
• is part of the public school system and is free for families.
• is taught by credentialed teachers with extra training to teach young kindergarteners.
• participates in all kindergarten activities such as Music, Library, and PE throughout the year.
• students learn by working with the teacher in small and large groups and also have opportunities for independent exploration.

Age Requirements

According to state law (Ed Code 48000[c]), children are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten at the beginning of a school year, or whenever they move into the district. For the 2025–26 school year, public schools are required to make TK available to all children who will have their fourth birthday by September 1, 2025.