SAN DIEGO — Children living in San Diego Unified School District boundaries who turn 4 years old before Sept. 1, 2024, are now eligible to register for transitional kindergarten (UTK).
The district says parents may pre-enroll eligible children at their school of residence.
UTK is considered the first year of school and is offered to students in San Diego Unified.
UTK students receive a full day of school, engaging in creative play time, the arts, and the fundamentals of reading, writing, and early math skills.
According to a statement from San Diego Unified, the district added 300 additional seats throughout San Diego Unified, bumping the total number of spots to approximately 5,200.
"The increase in UTK seats being offered for the upcoming school year represents the district's commitment to our littlest learners," Early Childhood Education Director Santos Gonzalez said. "Students who complete UTK before enrolling in kindergarten have better outcomes academically, emotionally, and socially."
Each UTK class has two teachers, and free and nutritious breakfast and lunch at school for those students who request them.
"High-quality early learning is essential for long-term student success," Board of Education President Shana Hazan said. "Not only does Universal Transitional Kindergarten help every child reach their potential, but our free full-day program in every neighborhood provides a wonderful childcare option for working parents without making a dent in their wallets. From purposeful play and nutritious meals to establishing strong pre-literacy and numeracy skills, it's great to see so many families tapping into the benefits of UTK."
Parents and guardians are asked to contact their local school and complete the enrollment packet. If all spots are taken then families will be allowed to go to another nearby school, dependent on availability.
After Feb. 2, UTK enrollment will continue through the end of the current school year and through the summer.