Transition to Kindergarten (TK) is a free, full-day program designed to help children build the skills they need for success in kindergarten. TK provides early learning experiences that support both academic growth and social development, giving young learners a strong start in school.

The program is open to children who are at least 4 years old by August 31 and who are identified through a screening process as needing additional preparation before entering kindergarten the following school year.

TK Program Options (2026-27 School Year)

For the 2026–27 school year, two TK classrooms will be offered:

• A traditional TK classroom
• A traditional TK classroom with intensive Spanish language support for multilingual learners

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Is TK a good fit for my child?

Transition to Kindergarten (TK) may be a good fit for children who need a little more time and support before starting kindergarten.

TK may be a good option if:

• Your child has little or no preschool or daycare experience
• Your child has had limited exposure to English
• Your family has faced challenges that may affect school readiness or access to early learning
• Your child is ready to attend school for a full day
• You have questions or concerns about your child’s social skills, language, or early learning development

TK gives children extra time to build confidence, routines, and skills in a supportive school setting before kindergarten.

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Who is eligible for TK?

To be considered for TK for the 2026-27 school year, children must:

• Be at least 4 years old by August 31, 2026, but not 5 years old on this date
• Live within the Monroe School District boundaries 
• Not be currently enrolled in an early learning full or part-time program, such as: licensed childcare, preschool, co-operative preschool, faith-based preschool, ECEAP, Head Start, etc.  
• Demonstrate academic and/or social-emotional needs through a screening process

Eligibility is determined through the application and screening process. Space is limited, and priority is given children who demonstrate the most need for additional preparation prior to entering kindergarten.

If you have questions about eligibility criteria, please contact Camille House at housec@monroe.wednet.edu or (360) 804-2600.

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Program Location

There will be two TK classrooms for the  2026-27 school year, located at Frank Wagner Elementary. Students will transition to their neighborhood school to begin kindergarten in the fall of the following year.

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Dates/Times

The TK program follows the regular Monroe School District calendar and will run the entire school year, from September to June. Classes are Monday through Thursday from 8:55 a.m. to 3:25 p.m., and Fridays from 8:55 a.m. to 2:10 p.m.

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Screening Process

Applications for the 2026-27 school year closed May 8, 2026.

After applications are reviewed, those who qualify for screening (see eligibility criteria above) will be invited via email or phone call in early June to an in-person screening at the District Administration Office (14692 179th Avenue SE, Monroe).

Screening will occur in late June. During your child's screening appointment, we will spend time getting to know your child and their developmental strengths and needs. This will be done by playing, counting, drawing, movement and other fun activities. After the screening, we will meet with the family to ask questions and understand more about your child. 

Screening scores, application information and a parent questionnaire will be considered to determine who will be invited into the TK program. Acceptance into the program will be emailed in early July.

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Transportation

Transportation is available for students in the TK program who live more than one mile walking distance from their resident school. Transportation from students' resident school is available if students attend a school outside of their resident school boundaries (see school boundaries page to determine resident school).

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Additional Questions

If you have additional questions, please contact Camille House at housec@monroe.wednet.edu or (360) 804-2600.