Future of Transitional Kindergarten Classes Uncertain

Students who are too young to enroll in regular kindergarten this year at in Menlo Park may not be able to attend transitional kindergarten classes in the district; the program is tied to the governor's proposed budget.

The district may not receive any money at all for the program. 

It may be months before the district has clarity on the amount of money it will receive from the state, said Board Member during a Menlo Park City School Board meeting this week.

“The Governor created a scenario where it would be difficult for them to go forward with it, since he’s put it on the chopping block,” Thyegsen said.  “And given the state of the finances and everything…all experts assume that the cut will hold,” she said.

Transitional kindergarten is an optional second year of school for students who are not eligible for regular kinder classes, because their birthday falls too late in the year.

If a child was born between November 2 and December 2^nd, they can enroll for the 2012-13 school year, starting February 1^st, according to the district's website.

While the funding source for the program is unclear at present, Assistant Superintendent Jo Mitchell recommended that the school district continue to accept applications with the caveat that parents should have a back up plan.

“It is exceedingly unlikely that the program will be funded,” Mitchell said.

But some parents such as Michelle Carr say there aren’t many options left. 
“A lot of the young fives are already full,” she told the Board.

Mitchell said parents should enroll their children anyway, so the district could have their information.  She said that way the district can contact parents if classes become available.   

Board Member  said the district should be honest with people.

“It could end up an unfunded mandate statewide,” Child said.

The School Board did not take action at Monday’s meeting. The Governor is expected to finalize the budget in June.

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