Transitional Kindergarten Expansion in a Particular State: An Analysis of Its Progress So Far
In recent years, California has joined a growing number of states making universal pre-K available to all 4-year-olds. The Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program, launched in 2012-13, is a "transition" year between preschool and kindergarten, designed to help 4-year-olds get used to the greater academic and behavioral expectations of kindergarten.
However, a report published in 2023 analyzed TK pre-expansion in five unnamed districts in California and found that it led to earlier identification of English-learner students and students with special education needs. Yet, the report did not find evidence that TK improves test scores in grades 3 and 4 more than other pre-kindergarten options for English-only students.
The first week of TK can be challenging due to developmental differences between 4- and 5-year-olds, and teachers need to understand and respond appropriately to this behavior. If states are considering rolling out TK programs, they should prioritize hiring early childhood experts to help navigate the change and ensure teachers are prepared, the curriculum is ready, and the physical space is appropriate for 4-year-olds.
In 2021, California sought to expand the program by passing a universal prekindergarten program, requiring public schools that offer kindergarten to add free pre-kindergarten, or TK, for all 4-year-olds by the 2025-26 school year. Despite more children being eligible for TK in 2024-25 than in 2023-24, enrollment did not increase proportionally, causing a decrease in the take-up rate.
Enrollment rates have been particularly low among underrepresented demographics. Pacific Islander, Black, Native American, and Latino children have consistently had lower TK enrollment rates compared to the average. Post-pandemic, the enrollment rate of Latino children in TK has dropped from 86% to 70%. Among Latino English learners, TK enrollment rates have dropped by 23 percentage points from pre-pandemic levels to 2023-24.
Implementation of TK seems to vary significantly from district to district. Some districts are expanding TK aggressively, admitting children before they are technically eligible, while others have waitlists and some do not offer TK at all. Every district with kindergarten is required to offer TK, but some districts that receive funding through the state's per-pupil funding formula or local control funding formula do not provide TK.
It's important to note that there is no specific current data available regarding parental involvement in participation in the TK program in California schools. Some basic aid districts, which are funded through property taxes, do not offer TK, despite some families needing it due to high childcare costs.
The low enrollment rates among underrepresented demographics is a concern, as TK is intended to help all children. As California and other states continue to roll out TK programs, it's crucial to address these disparities and ensure that all children have access to quality early education.
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