Accordion

    What is Transitional Kindergarten?

    Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a district-operated early learning program that serves younger students who are age eligible but may need additional time and support before kindergarten.

    TK classrooms focus on:

    • Social-emotional development
    • Communication and language skills
    • Early literacy and math readiness
    • Learning routines and school expectations
    • Fine motor and self-help skills
    • Play-based and hands-on learning
    • Building independence and confidence

    TK helps create a strong bridge between preschool and kindergarten.

    Who is Eligible?

    Students must:

    • Be 4 years old by August 31, 2026
    • Meet Washington State Transitional Kindergarten eligibility requirements
    • Be identified through the district screening and placement process as needing additional preparation before kindergarten

    Because TK is intended for students who are not yet kindergarten ready, placement is not solely based on age.

    How is TK Different from Preschool?

    Transitional Kindergarten is part of the K–12 school system and is designed specifically to prepare students for success in kindergarten.

    While TK includes play-based and developmentally appropriate learning, it also helps students gradually build:

    • Classroom stamina
    • Structured routines
    • Early academic readiness
    • School independence
    • Peer interaction skills

    TK is often a good fit for students who:

    • Would benefit from more time before kindergarten
    • Are still developing social-emotional or communication skills
    • Need support with routines, transitions, or confidence in a school setting
    • May be younger or less developmentally ready than peers entering kindergarten
    Full-Time Program

    Concrete Elementary School’s TK program is a full-time program.

    Important Dates

    • Assessments and screenings: September 2–8, 2026
    • First day of TK: September 9, 2026

    Students participate in:

    • Breakfast and lunch
    • Whole group and small group instruction
    • Learning centers and hands-on activities
    • Outdoor play and movement
    • Social-emotional learning
    • Early literacy and math experiences
    Why Families Choose TK

    Families often choose Transitional Kindergarten because it gives their child:

    • An extra year to grow and mature
    • A smoother transition into kindergarten
    • More confidence in school routines and expectations
    • Additional support in communication and peer interactions
    • Time to build foundational learning skills before kindergarten

    For many students, TK helps create a stronger and more successful start to their K–12 educational experience.

    Screening and Placement Process

    Placement in Transitional Kindergarten is determined through a screening and assessment process completed by district staff.

    The district works with families to determine whether TK or kindergarten is the best fit for each child.

    Families interested in TK are encouraged to contact Concrete Elementary School early, as space is limited.

    Interested in Learning More?

    Concrete Elementary School 360-853-4010

    Families may also be interested in learning about the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), which serves eligible 3- and 4-year-old children and families.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK)

Continuing Early Learning Opportunities at Concrete Elementary School.

Concrete School District is excited to continue offering Transitional Kindergarten (TK) at Concrete Elementary School for the 2026–2027 school year.

Concrete Elementary School has successfully operated a Transitional Kindergarten program for several years, and we are fortunate to have retained our Transitional Kindergarten slots for the 2026–2027 school year at a time when some districts across Washington are losing access to TK funding and slots.

For the 2026–2027 school year, Concrete Elementary School has 27 Transitional Kindergarten slots available.

Transitional Kindergarten is designed for 4-year-old children who are not yet ready for a traditional kindergarten classroom and would benefit from an additional year of growth and development before entering kindergarten.

TK provides students with a supportive, developmentally appropriate learning environment focused on building confidence, routines, communication, social-emotional skills, independence, and early academic foundations.