Waukee CSD Introduces Transitional Kindergarten

0M4A0030Waukee Community School District announced it will begin offering transitional kindergarten (TK) in the 2025-26 school year.

TK is a program for children of kindergarten age who would benefit from an additional year of school. With smaller class sizes and an adjusted pace, TK provides an opportunity for students to work on readiness skills before entering kindergarten.

“Oftentimes parents will stop me and ask, ‘Do you think I should hold my child at home one more year?’ And I always say, ‘If you’re thinking about not starting them in kindergarten, it never hurts to wait a year.'” said Superintendent Dr. Brad Buck. “Now I can say, ‘We have a program just for your child, and that program is transitional kindergarten.'”

What is transitional kindergarten?

Transitional kindergarten is not:
  • Introduces kindergarten-level math, literacy, and other standards at an adjusted pace
  • Offers specials including art, music, library, PE, guidance, and technology
  • Promotes self-confidence and independence
  • Offers additional space and time for students to develop social and academic skills
  • A special education or behavioral program.
  • A replacement for kindergarten. TK students will attend kindergarten the following year.

Transitional kindergarten will be five full days a week, tuition-free, and located in the District’s elementary schools. TK students are eligible for the District’s before and after-school care, as well as transportation just like other kindergarten students. The TK program will follow the same daily schedule and school year calendar as the elementary classes.

0M4A0299The program is open to students who will be five years old on Sept. 15, 2025. Those students with summer birthdays may be especially interested; however, TK is open to any kindergarten-age student who would benefit from a program that bridges the gap between preschool and kindergarten.

Most important, TK will be part of the outstanding Waukee CSD education, which means TK learners will have the same welcoming, innovative, and creative classroom experiences as other students.

“We’re proud to say our District has excellent teachers, amazing facilities, and a focus on meeting the learning needs of every child. As you think about choosing transitional kindergarten, your child will be able to experience all the wonderful things that are part of the Waukee Community School District,” Dr. Buck said.

Enrollment opens on Jan. 14, and families are asked to enroll as soon as possible so the District can determine TK locations. For more information, visit the TK enrollment webpage, or attend one of our upcoming information sessions:

TK Parent Information Night
Jan. 22, 5-6 p.m.
Waukee Innovation & Learning Center

TK Parent Information Night – Virtual
Jan. 28, 5-6 p.m.
Click this link to join