HHES is excited to offer Transitional Kindergarten to 4-year-old students at Hockinson Heights Elementary. Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a full-day preschool program. The goal of the TK program is to get each student ready for a successful Kindergarten year by providing a high-quality early-learning experience. TK students receive instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, and social skills from a Hockinson teacher who specializes in early childhood education. Students participate in specialist classes with our art, music, and PE instructors, attend lunch, and recess during the school day.
Transitional Kindergarten FAQs:
Who is eligible to enroll in TK?
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a program for four-year-old children who do not have access to high-quality early learning experiences prior to kindergarten. Children must turn 4 on or before August to be eligible for the coming school year. In order to enter TK, students participate in a screening process. They are eligible to enroll in TK if they are in need of additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten the following year.
How do I apply to enroll in TK for the 2024-25 school year?
The 2024-25 form to schedule a TK screening for your student is available now! The TK screening takes about 30 minutes. The screening assesses your child’s level of development in the areas of communication, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, problem-solving, and social skills. You will also be asked to give input about your child’s development. After the screening assessment, eligible students will be invited to enroll in TK.
Is there a cost for TK?
No, the TK program is free to all eligible students. Transitional Kindergarten students are categorized and funded as full-time students by the State of Washington, just like our K-12 students. This enables us to offer this program at no cost to Hockinson families.
How is TK different from regular kindergarten?
Students are eligible for kindergarten when and if they are five years of age by August 31. TK programs are intended for children not yet five by August 31 who have been deemed in need of additional preparation in order to be successful in kindergarten the following year. In most cases, TK students will continue into regular kindergarten the following year; however, there may be instances when a TK student is promoted to first grade instead.
What does the day look like for a student enrolled in TK?
TK student attend school on the same schedule as other students. The school day begins at 7:45 a.m. and ends at 2:15 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. On Wednesdays, school begins at 7:45 a.m. and ends at 1:15 p.m TK students and their families participate in meetings with the teacher at the start of the school year. The TK program is focused on learning experiences that help students develop initial skills in the academic areas of reading, mathematics, and writing; develop a variety of communication skills; provide experiences in science, social studies, arts, and health and physical education; acquire large and small motor skills; acquire social and emotional skills, including successful participation in learning activities as an individual and as part of a group; and learning through hands-on experiences.
Is busing available for my TK student?
Yes. TK students can ride the school bus to and from school. Our office staff can help you arrange bus transportation.