Transitional Kindergarten

As of the 2026-2027 school year, California has reached full implementation of Universal TK.

TK Eligibility: Children who turn four years old on or before September 1, 2026 (Birthdates between September 2, 2021 and September 1, 2022).

Kindergarten Eligibility: Children who turn five years old on or before September 1, 2026.

Note: In SMFCSD, students are enrolled in the grade level for which they are age-eligible; there are no exceptions for early or late admittance.

Our TK classrooms are grounded in the California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF), ensuring a high-quality, research-based experience. We use a "whole-child" approach supported by a blend of premier adopted curricula and teacher-created materials to meet the diverse needs of every learner:

Three Cheers for TK: This serves as our core integrated program. It provides a multi-sensory experience that builds literacy, math, and social skills through engaging themes and "purposeful play."

TWIG Science: We spark natural curiosity through hands-on discovery. Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) as a guide, students explore the world around them by acting as little scientists and engineers.

Handwriting Without Tears: We focus on fine motor development and pre-writing skills using this award-winning, developmentally appropriate program. It makes learning to write letters a joyful, frustration-free experience.

Teacher-Created Materials: Because we believe in equity and inclusion, our expert educators supplement these programs with custom-designed materials. This ensures our instruction is culturally responsive and tailored to the unique strengths and interests of the students in each specific classroom.

Social-Emotional Growth: Using the Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF) "Social-Emotional Development" domain, we help children build self-regulation and empathy, ensuring they feel supported as they navigate their first school friendships.

Language & Literacy: We celebrate the diverse languages of our community. We build a strong bridge between a child's home language and English literacy, following the PTKLF’s Foundational Language Development principles.

Optimal Ratios: To ensure a safe and nurturing environment, SMFCSD maintains a 10:1 student-to-adult ratio in our TK classrooms, allowing for individualized attention and small-group learning.