The Changing Face of TK in California
Cathy McSweeney |  May 12, 2023 

California has always been a trailblazer when it comes to education reform, and the latest changes in the Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program are no exception. Legislation passed during the summer of 2021 initiated a 4 year roll-out of TK expansion that began this school year and affects enrollment age, classroom ratios, teacher qualifications, and the TK curriculum.

One of the most significant changes in TK is lowering the age of enrollment. Previously, children were eligible for TK if they turned five years old between September 2nd and December 2nd. In this current school year, the age was expanded to include children turning five between September 2nd and February 2nd. Next year the enrollment age will expand again to include children turning five by April 2nd. This age expansion continues through 2025-26, when all four year olds who turn five by September 1st will be eligible. This significant change will expand access to TK for thousands of children, including our littlest learners in the SRV community. 

In addition to the age expansion, California has also set limits on classroom staffing for our youngest learners. The new law requires smaller class sizes for TK which will provide a more personalized learning experience for each child. The new student-to-staff ratio is now 1:12 which means that a class of 24 students requires a teacher and a paraeducator, or a second teacher. Additionally, TK teachers must now have 24 units of Early Childhood Education completed as well as a multiple-subject credential.

Finally, the curriculum for this new grade is also changing. Whereas TK was perceived as a pre-academic preparation year for kindergarten, the new focus is on play-based learning and student choice. Research indicates that play-based learning promotes children’s social-emotional development, language and literacy skills, cognitive development, and creativity. It also helps children develop self-regulation skills such as attention, impulse control, and the regulation of emotions, which are essential for school readiness and set the stage for deep learning and #SuccessReimagined in SRVUSD. 

Our district  jumped on board and began planning for these changes as soon as the legislation passed. Preparation for welcoming younger students who have different developmental needs has been an extensive, yet exciting endeavor. Many departments - including Human Resources, Facilities, Business, Special Education, and Educational Services - collaborated to ensure that the rollout went smoothly. Executive Director of Elementary Education, Nadine Rosenzweig, led the work, and noted, “It’s been a lot to get done with a very short window, but in the end, it’s what is best for kids. By expanding access for our youngest learners and focusing on a play-based experience, TK students will build a strong foundation for future success.” We can’t wait to meet our next group of the youngest SRVUSD students!