Transitional Kindergarten
Transitional Kindergarten
What is Transitional Kindergarten?
In California, changes to Kindergarten eligibility mean some children may not yet meet the age requirement for traditional Kindergarten. To support these young learners, school districts are required to offer Transitional Kindergarten (TK), providing an additional year of learning designed specifically for children during this important stage of development.
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A Bridge Between Preschool & Kindergarten
Transitional Kindergarten combines the foundational elements of preschool with California's Kindergarten standards. The program supports children's academic, social-emotional, language, and developmental growth while preparing them for success in Kindergarten and beyond.
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Designed by SUSD Educators
Stockton Unified Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten educators collaborated for more than a year to develop curriculum and learning experiences tailored to our youngest students. Their work led to the creation of the Early Learning Continuum, a guide that supports families and educators in fostering student success.
Eligibility & Enrollment
For the 2026–2027 School Year
Children who turn 4 by September 1, 2026 are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten.
Students currently enrolled in SUSD preschool programs who are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten for 2026–2027 are still required to enroll for Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten.
How to Enroll
Families may enroll online or visit the Enrollment Center.
Enrollment Center
1144 E. Channel Street
Stockton, CA 95206
Required Documents
- Valid parent or legal guardian photo ID
- Proof of child’s age
- Current proof of address
- Child’s original immunization record
Supplemental Documents
- Sibling’s birth certificate, if sibling is age 18 or under
- Income documentation for the past 30 days
Recommended Documents
- Child’s physical examination record
- Child’s oral health examination record
TK Resources
To learn more about Transitional Kindergarten, visit the California Department of Education or Transitional Kindergarten California websites.
2026–2027 Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Students are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) if they turn 4 years old by September 1, 2026.
New TK Sites for 2026–2027
- Roosevelt Elementary
- Commodore Skills
- El Dorado Elementary
Questions & Answers
What is the difference between Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten?
Transitional Kindergarten provides a developmentally appropriate, theme-based curriculum modified from California Kindergarten standards and California Preschool Foundations.
Is my child required to attend Transitional Kindergarten if their birthday falls within the cut-off date?
No. Transitional Kindergarten is an optional program for families.
Can my child enter Kindergarten if they are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten?
No. Kindergarten entry is based on the required age cut-off date.
Where will Transitional Kindergarten classes be held?
Transitional Kindergarten classes are offered at designated school sites within attendance zones.
If TK is not offered at my child’s neighborhood school, where will they go?
Based on space availability, your child may attend the TK classroom at the school closest to their neighborhood. TK is a one-year program, and your child will return to your preferred school the following school year.
Which school will my child attend for Kindergarten if they attend TK at a different school?
Your child will still attend your preferred school for Kindergarten unless they are accepted into an SUSD Magnet School.
Will transportation be provided to schools offering Transitional Kindergarten?
No. Transitional Kindergarten is optional, and parents or guardians are responsible for transporting their child to the TK program.
Can my child participate in TK if they turn 5 on or before September 1?
SUSD’s TK program is for students who turn 4 by September 1, 2026. Children who turn 5 on or before September 1 are eligible for Kindergarten in SUSD.