Transitional Kindergarten

Why Transitional Kindergarten?

Research indicates that entering kindergarten at an older age is one early predictor for student success. As Cannon and Lipscomb have stated, "Students who are older when they enter kindergarten have better elementary math and reading scores. These effects appear to persist into eighth grade, albeit with smaller magnitudes." (Cannon and Libscomb 2008, 1)

Starting kindergarten at an older age will also allow children to further develop their social and emotional skills and be ready to actively engage in academics at the kindergarten level. Because of the increasing academic demands placed on kindergarten students, there is less and less time to nurture social and emotional skills. Deficiencies in these areas tend to inhibit learning in younger kindergarten students, which causes them to fall behind academically. Joseph Durlak and his colleagues (2011) state, "Emotions can facilitate or impeded children's academic engagement, work ethic, commitment, and ultimate school success" (Durlak et al. 2011, 405). As a result, by the time these same students enter first grade, they are more likely to be considered for retention, receive interventions, or be referred for special education testing. You may see the biggest differences when they reach late middle school or early high school age with early signs of puberty.

What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten is a bridge between preschool and Kindergarten for children turning 5 years old between September 1 and December 2. It gives young learners a head start and provides them with an opportunity to learn and grow in an environment that is tailored to meet their academic and social needs.

Transitional Kindergarten:

  • Is part of the public school system and is free for families.
  • Uses a unique, specialized curriculum that is based on the Kindergarten standards and is designed to support young 5 year olds.
  • Is taught by credentialed teachers with training to teach young Kindergarteners.

What Happens in a Transitional Kindergarten Classroom?

In transitional Kindergarten, teachers help children develop social skills through activities that build confidence and communication. They also expose children to reading and math in an exciting, interactive way by using educational games to teach children about words and sentences and help them understand mathematical concepts like counting and patterns.

Redding School District's Transitional Kindergarten will offer:

  • Classroom facility and teacher: Transitional Kindergarten classes are located on all Redding School District sites.
  • Length of school day: Students will attend school every day for the same times as the traditional kindergarten students.
  • Curriculum and Learning: Students learn important new skills that build on what they may have learned in preschool and help them adjust to the elementary school environment.
  • Learning Environment: Students learn by working with the teacher in small and large groups and also have opportunities for independent exploration.

Who Attends Transitional Kindergarten?

All children who are not 5 years old by September 1st will attend a two year Kindergarten program called Transitional Kindergarten.

The child entering will be: Class Placement
5 years old  on or before September 1 Kindergarten Classroom
4 years old on or before August 16th Transitional Kindergarten Classroom
 

 

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