As shared in the California Department of Education’s Great Start guidance, children learn best when they feel safe, welcome, and included. Our TK classrooms celebrate the different cultures, languages, and experiences of our students and families. We want every child to feel that they belong.
Our classrooms are also inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early learning, which began in Italy. This approach sees the classroom as a “third teacher,” meaning that the space itself helps children learn. The way a classroom is arranged, along with the materials available, encourages children to explore, play, and learn together.
Our TK classrooms are designed to:
Give children space to learn on their own, in small groups, and as a class.
Help children build friendships, understand their feelings, and practice independence.
Make toys, books, and learning materials easy for children to reach and use.
Reflect the different cultures, languages, and backgrounds of our students and families.
Provide safe, organized spaces with clear daily routines.
We provide furniture and learning materials designed for young children. Each TK classroom has child-sized tables, chairs, and materials that support hands-on learning through play. These spaces help teachers meet the different needs of children while making learning welcoming and engaging for everyone.
SLUSD TK Handbook 2026