Transitional Kindergarten Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Transitional Kindergarten?
Transitional kindergarten (TK) bridges the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten years. It is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program that is being implemented in California for children who are not old enough yet for kindergarten, but want to build their social, developmental and academic skills.
Why is TK expanding in MCSD and what does that mean for families?
With the passage of the 2021-2022 California budget, Transitional Kindergarten will be expanded, with full implementation of Universal TK slated for the 2025-26 school year. Expansion begins in 2022-23 and incrementally increases eligibility for TK based on children’s birthdates, until Universal TK is achieved by 2025-26 and will include all children who turn 4 before September 1 of the current school year.
How is TK different from preschool?
There are many differences and benefits between the two programs. To see a side-by-side comparison of preschool and TK, click HERE
My child is already enrolled in preschool, do I have to enroll them in TK?
No, there is no requirement for you to enroll your child in TK. If your child is currently enrolled in our MCSD preschool program, you may re-enroll your child in preschool for another year.
My child is turning 5 years old between September 2, 2024 and June 2, 2025. What options do I have?
Parents must decide which environment is appropriate for their child. There are 2 options:
- Parents may enroll in MCSD’s Preschool program (or, if already enrolled in preschool, children may stay an additional year).
OR
- Parents may enroll their child in a MCSD Transitional Kindergarten program.
Is enrolling in TK mandatory?
A: No, even if a child is TK eligible, parents have a choice of whether they want to enroll their child in TK or preschool.
Who is eligible for TK enrollment?
A: According to a new state law, more children will be eligible for TK starting with the 2022-2023 school year. For the 2022-23 school year, TK is for students who will be turning age 5 between September 2, 2022 and February 2, 2023. (California law requires that children be age 5 on or before September 1 of the school year to be eligible for kindergarten, and age 6 on or before September 1 of the school year to be eligible for first-grade.) See the age chart below
How do we apply for TK?
Go to our Enrollment page HERE and follow the instructions
Which MCSD schools are offering TK?
TK is offered at all 14 MCSD elementary schools
What does a high quality TK environment look like?
TK sets the stage for learning through inquiry, exploration, and problem solving while introducing children to grade-level content standards. The teacher and peers nurture language development through interactions and conversation. The environment promotes independence, social emotional skills, and self-regulation that are essential for a successful entry into Kindergarten.
What are my options if my TK child has special needs?
We provide special education services and supplementary supports in accordance to State and Federal requirements.
Who can I talk to about my options?
Our preschool team will be happy to discuss your options and answer any questions you have about our program. Please call (209) 385-6619
Click here for a printable version of this FAQ
For technical questions and comments regarding this website, including accessibility concerns, please contact the Webmaster.