After reviewing community feedback, enrollment trends, and early learning data, Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) will offer at least one Transitional Kindergarten (TK) classroom at every elementary school beginning in the 2026–27 school year. Based on projected enrollment, the total number of TK classes districtwide is expected to remain stable at approximately 10.

This model allows students to begin their educational journey at their neighborhood school, providing greater continuity for families while maintaining the quality, structure, and supports essential to four-year-old learners.

Community Input and Data that Shaped the Decision

Last month, the District invited families, staff, and community members to share their experiences with TK. More than 500 participants responded. Across responses, TK was consistently described as a meaningful bridge into elementary school, with participants highlighting gains in school readiness, social-emotional development, early literacy and numeracy, and the benefits of smaller, supportive learning environments.

TK teachers, instructional assistants, and site leaders also reported high satisfaction and emphasized the importance of collaboration, targeted professional learning, and maintaining appropriate class sizes to meet the unique needs of young learners.

This feedback was reviewed alongside enrollment history and findings from the Early Development Instrument (EDI), a research-based tool that provides a snapshot of how children are developing as they enter kindergarten, including social-emotional development, language and thinking skills, physical well-being, and communication. Our most recent EDI results show that more early learners are now “on target” across these key areas compared to prior years, with that progress reflected in kindergarten classrooms as students arrive better prepared to learn.

Community Survey Results

TK Staff Survey Results

Why Early Learning Matters

One of the most important things we can do as a Preschool–8 system is to give our youngest learners a strong start. High-quality early learning supports language development, social skills, and confidence, which carry forward into every grade level and contribute to long-term student success.

Enrollment Timeline and Next Steps

Families are encouraged to enroll early, as space will be limited at some sites. Additional details will be shared during the upcoming Early Childhood Education Meetings.

Enrollment for the 2026–27 school year opens on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 9:00 AM for new students.

Fiscal Context and Long-Term Planning

As a community-funded district, HBCSD continues to fund TK through the General Fund, as the State does not currently provide TK funding for districts like ours. While we remain hopeful that future legislation may address this gap, the District has been intentional in designing a TK model that balances access, quality, and fiscal responsibility, ensuring we can support early learners while preserving resources for all TK–8 students.