Transitional kindergarten (TK) is a special program designed for students who turn 5 in the fall – and are not quite old enough to enroll in traditional kindergarten. A child is eligible for TK if they have their 5th birthday between September 2 and December 2 (inclusive).
TK is designed as the first year of a two-year kindergarten program that uses a modified kindergarten curriculum that is age and developmentally appropriate. A child who completes one year in a TK program, may continue in a kindergarten program for one additional year. Each elementary or unified school district must offer TK classes for all children eligible to attend.
Parents who are interested in this opportunity for their eligible children may contact their local school or district for TK information specific to their location.
Additional TK Information and Resources
General
CDE - Transitional Kindergarten webpage (CDE) – Collection of resources and links (e.g. FAQs, TK and K eligibility/admissions, early admission to TK, amendments, etc.).
Transitional Kindergarten FAQs (CDE) –Frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding California state law relating to kindergarten
TK California – (Early Edge Organization) – Website with information and resources
District Implementation
Transitional Kindergarten Implementation Guide (CCSESA, 2015) - Resources and guidance for administrators and teachers in the areas of program design, curriculum, instruction, assessment, and family/community partnerships
TK Professional Resource Guide for Administrators (CCSSEA) - An annotated list of accessible online resources to support TK.
Parent Engagement Toolkit
TK Parent Brochure Template – District may customize to their program specifics
TK and the California Content Standards and Frameworks
TK Teacher Support
TK - Teacher Requirements and TK Stipends (CDE FAQs): Information on the credentialing and additional requirements for TK Teachers, and related California TK Stipends.
California TK Stipend Initiative (SDCOE): Please note, this information and document is provided by the San Diego County Child Care and Development Planning Council. Please contact Dezerie Martinez if you have any questions regarding the California TK Stipend Initiative. Resources and stipends to support teachers in San Diego County to obtain credentials and other requirements for teaching TK.
TK - Online Professional Learning Modules: The California Department of Education and Sacramento County Office of Education have developed free Transitional Kindergarten online Professional Learning Modules to support TK teachers and administrators. Participants may also obtain continuing learning credit. The modules and courses are free; however, there is a cost for obtaining continuing education units (CEUs) if desired.
Archived Resources
TK Workgroup – Resources for Implementation (SDCOE, 2012): Developed by educators from across San Diego County to support early implementation of TK, and includes:
- Preschool foundations and Common Core State Standards
- Teacher Tips for CCSS – ELA and Mathematics
- Reporting and Assessment Resources
