Transitional Kindergarten (TK) serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten within California's public school system. Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, all children who turn 4 by September 1 will be eligible to enroll in TK at no cost. While TK is primarily offered in public schools, families may also choose to enroll their eligible children in other prekindergarten programs, such as the California State Preschool Program (CSPP), Head Start, or private preschool options, depending on eligibility and preference.
Credential Details
TK utilizes the California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF) to create a developmentally appropriate practice curriculum. TK in private and state-funded licensed preschool programs can be taught by a qualified Preschool Teacher. TK in the Public School System must be taught by an educator who holds one of the following qualifying credentials:
- Multiple Subject Credential, as well as 24 additional Early Childhood Education (ECE) units
- or, PK-3 Early Childhood Education Instruction Specialist Credential.
To clarify further, the State does not currently specify the list of ECE courses required for Multi-Subject Credentialed Teachers, referring to the 24 ECE additional units needed to be a qualified TK Teacher. Irvine Valley College (IVC) offers many course options within the Department of Human Development. IVC also offers a convenient fast-tracked Transitional Kindergarten Pathway for Multi-Subject Credential Teachers.