Transitional kindergarten (TK) is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program that uses a developmentally and age-appropriate modified kindergarten curriculum. TK does not replicate preschool or kindergarten. It addresses the child’s language, literacy, and pre-math skills with an emphasis on social and emotional development. The program blends preschool and readiness standards for kindergarten with a focus on hands-on and experiential learning. Research shows that taking the time for readiness for school can predict success later in the formative years of elementary and secondary education. Getting a strong start is very important.

TK classrooms are taught by a multiple-subject credentialed teacher with the support of an aide with early childhood training and the TK curriculum is based on a combination of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and the Kindergarten Common Core Standards. TK is offered at select WCCUSD Elementary schools.

With the rollout of California’s Universal TK, children who turn 4 by September 1, 2025 are eligible to enroll in TK for the 2025-26 school year.

By 2025-2026, all elementary school sites in WCCUSD will offer TK. This is subject to modification for sites currently under construction.

No. Children must turn 4 on or before September 1, 2025 to attend TK. Assessments are not used to determine TK enrollment eligibility.

No. We strictly adhere to the age eligibility requirements for a child to enroll in kindergarten. A child must turn 5 on or before September 1, 2025 to enroll in kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year.

The TK program is taught by credentialed teachers and runs 5 days a week. TK offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum that allows students to explore, create, and learn through purposeful play based activities. Social emotional, fine motor, and academic skills are all integrated in this hands-on program to build a strong foundation for meeting the rigor of kindergarten the following year.

TK is a bridge from Preschool to Kindergarten. It does not replace kindergarten. The program uses the California Preschool Learning Foundations to lay a solid educational foundation and prepare our youngest learners for future academic success.

Yes, in California, you can enroll your child in TK even if they are eligible for Kindergarten. However, you will need to submit supporting documentation in writing to the District in advance.

The 2025-26 TK and Kindergarten enrollment window will run from 9am on January 21- 4pm on February 14th. Completed online registrations must be submitted by 4pm on February 14th to be included in the first round of confirmation of space at the resident school site.

Our enrollment process is all online. The online enrollment application and forms are available on the West Contra Costa Unified School District website at: www.wccusd.net/newfamilyenrollment