Inclusionary Transitional Kindergarten
Stanwood-Camano School District is launching a free program aimed at helping students prepare for kindergarten.
Inclusive Transitional Kindergarten (ITK) is a free, full-day early entrance kindergarten program for children who are scheduled to enter kindergarten in the upcoming school year. Students are typically eligible for the program if they have not had prior access to early learning experiences, and/or have been identified, through a screening process as being in need of additional preparation based on academic or social-emotional deficits, to be successful in kindergarten in the following year.
The program will begin on January 31. Classes are taught by highly qualified teachers, and transportation will be provided. Space is limited. The ITK program is aligned with the Washington Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to promote social/emotional competence in infants and young children.
Our goal is to provide families with the opportunity to ensure their students begin their school careers ready for kindergarten. This program will provide an equitable start for students by offering a high quality early learning experience before they enter the traditional kindergarten classroom. Students will learn the routines of kindergarten, colors, shapes, alphabet, and numbers, vocabulary, sharing and following directions in a school setting. Most of all, kids will have fun while learning! To apply for the ITK program, you can fill out the application form here.
If you have questions, please contact Amy Gillett at (360) 629-1260 [email protected] or Shoshana Rosen at (360) 629-1270 [email protected]
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THE INCLUSIVE TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions about ITK
Who is eligible for the Transitional Kindergarten program?
Anyone can apply to be screened for the program. Students are typically eligible for the program if they have not had prior access to early learning experiences, and/or have been identified, through a screening process, as being in need of additional preparation based on academic or social-emotional deficits, to be successful in kindergarten in the following year. We encourage all interested parents to apply.
Is there a cost for Transitional Kindergarten?
No, it is a free program!
How old would my student need to be to participate?
Students must be at least 5 years of age as of September 1.
What is the application process?
To apply for the ITK program, you can fill out the application form here.
What is the screening process?
The team will be looking at a variety of information regarding the students, including residence, access to previous learning experiences, assessment data, social-emotional needs, and balance of needs in the classroom.
Where will the Transitional Program be located?
The programs are located at Twin City Elementary and Utsalady Elementary, but are open for any student in the district.
Is transportation available?
Yes, transportation will be provided.
Is breakfast and lunch available for students?
Students experience a typical elementary school day, which includes breakfast and lunch availability. Fees would be charged based on the district criteria with free and reduced lunches available.
What does the class size and staffing model look like?
Each Transitional Kindergarten classroom is staffed with a full-time, certificated teacher and a full-time classroom assistant. A target classroom size of a maximum of 20 students per class has been identified.
What does a typical day look like in a Transitional Kindergarten classroom?
You will see children learning through purposeful play. They will be immersed in opportunities to build their social emotional skills, language development and communication through play, hands-on activities and small group instruction. Students will go to PE, Music and Digital Learning just like they will in traditional kindergarten. Our students will be engaging in early reading, writing and math activities that are delivered through multi-sensory experiences, role-playing, structured play and small group learning.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Shoshana Rosen at (360) 629-1270 [email protected]
Amy Gillett at (360) 629-1260 [email protected]