From Pre-K to TK
For many years, Holy Spirit School was blessed with an excellent pre-kindergarten program. Many of our children were a part of this program, and they received outstanding preparation for kindergarten. To better serve the needs of families and to continue fulfilling the mission of “growing” students in faith, knowledge, and community, the school decided that in the 2023-24 school year, the introduction of a transitional kindergarten program would strengthen the school community and enhance the academic development of our youngest coyotes.
What is Transitional Kindergarten?
A transitional kindergarten in a private school uses a unique, specialized curriculum based on kindergarten standards and is designed to support students who are 4 years old by September 1. TK emphasizes both social-emotional development and academic readiness and foundations. TK is part of the kindergarten program and is taught by teachers with a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree, Early Childhood units, and a Teaching Credential.
We are particularly happy to see:
- Students have unity with the rest of the school: Unlike Pre-K, a TK program is not separated from the rest of the school in any way. TK students attend morning assembly, they now have a “buddy class” relationship with older 7th grade buddies, and they no longer face limitations in attending Mass, going to PE in the gym, or visiting the school library.
- There is no age difference from Pre-K: TK students must be 4 years old by September 1.
- We see a stronger focus on academics: TK has a specific curriculum in the State of California which is designed to introduce students to all major Common Core standards for Kindergarten. Holy Spirit’s TK is viewed as the first year of a two-year Kindergarten program.
- Students benefit from a social-emotional focus: Our 4 and 5 year-olds continue to receive age-appropriate social/emotional and developmental learning experiences.
- Teachers are more cohesive: Being on the same schedule as K-8 teachers, TK teachers now participate in all professional development, catechetical training, staff meetings and retreats.
- TK students may attend Extended Care: Families have more flexibility with before and after school supervisory needs.
I invite you to schedule a tour or visit one of our Open Houses so you can see first-hand our youngest coyotes learning, growing and flourishing in faith, knowledge and community!
-Sally Douthit, Holy Spirit School Principal.
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