Transitional Kindergarten

Transitional Kindergarten

After a successful launch of our new Transitional Kindergarten program in January 2023, the Stanwood-Camano School District is proud to continue the free program for the 2023-24 school year.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is aimed at helping children who haven’t accessed pre-school prepare for kindergarten.

TK is a free, full-day early entrance kindergarten program for children who will be 4 years old as of September 1, 2023. 

Students are eligible for the program if they have not had prior access to early learning experiences and/or have been identified through a screening process as being in need of additional preparation based on academic or social-emotional deficits to be successful in kindergarten in the following year.  

The program will begin in October. Applications opened May 17. Classes are taught by highly qualified teachers, and transportation will be provided. Space is limited. The TK program is aligned with the Washington Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to promote social/emotional competence in infants and young children. 

Our goal is to provide families with the opportunity to ensure their students begin their school careers ready for kindergarten. 

Students will learn the routines of kindergarten, colors, shapes, alphabet, and numbers, vocabulary, sharing and following directions in a school setting. Most of all, kids will have fun while learning!

To apply, please complete this form.

As of June 24, 2023, the district is evaluating applicant information and families will receive notification mid-summer.

If you have questions, please contact Robert Hascall, Director of Special Services:

Phone: 360-629-1236
Email: [email protected]

HOW TO APPLY

The Transitional Kindergarten for the 2022-2023 school year is currently full and our waiting list extends beyond the potential openings. The application for the 2023-2024 school year opened on May 17, 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions about TK

Who is eligible for the Transitional Kindergarten program?

Students are eligible for the program if they have not had prior access to early learning experiences, and/or have been identified, through a screening process, as being in need of additional preparation based on academic or social-emotional deficits, to be successful in kindergarten in the following year.  We encourage all interested parents to apply.

Is there a cost for Transitional Kindergarten?

No, it is a free program!

What is the application process? 

To apply for the TK program, you can fill out the application form beginning on May 17, 2023.

What is the screening process?

The team will be looking at a variety of information regarding the students, including residence, access to previous learning experiences, assessment data, social-emotional needs, and balance of needs in the classroom.

When will families hear back about their child’s application?

The district is evaluating applicant information and families will receive notification mid-summer 2023 for the 2023-24 school year.

What will the class makeup of students be?

Transitional Kindergarten is established partly as an opportunity for students with disabilities to participate in their education with their typically developing peers.  Between 30% and 50% of the students will be students with disabilities being served by special education.

Where will the Transitional Program be located? 

The programs are located at Twin City Elementary and Utsalady Elementary, but are open for any student in the district.

Is transportation available? 

Yes, transportation will be provided.

Is breakfast and lunch available for students? 

Students experience a typical elementary school day, which includes breakfast and lunch availability. Fees would be charged based on the district criteria with free and reduced lunches available.

What does the class size and staffing model look like? 

Each Transitional Kindergarten classroom is staffed with a full-time, certificated teacher and a full-time classroom assistant. A target classroom size of a maximum of 20 students per class has been identified. 

What does a typical day look like in a Transitional Kindergarten classroom? 

You will see children learning through purposeful play. They will be immersed in opportunities to build their social emotional skills, language development and communication through play, hands-on activities and small group instruction. Students will go to PE, Music and Digital Learning just like they will in traditional kindergarten. Our students will be engaging in early reading, writing and math activities that are delivered through multi-sensory experiences, role-playing, structured play and small group learning.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Robert Hascall, Director of Special Services
Phone: 360-629-1236
Email: [email protected]