The bill amends RCW 28A.300.072 to rename the transitional kindergarten program as the "transition to kindergarten program," which aims to assist eligible children in preparing for success in kindergarten. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction is tasked with administering this program and must adopt rules for its administration, funding allocation, and minimum standards. Key requirements include limiting enrollment to eligible children, prioritizing low-income families, administering a skills inventory, and conducting local needs assessments before expanding programs. Additionally, the bill prohibits charging tuition for state-funded children and excludes policies that would deny enrollment based solely on disability.

A new section is created to mandate collaboration between the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to develop a phased plan for expanding the transition to kindergarten program. This plan will prioritize communities with the highest unmet needs and will limit growth to five percent in annual average full-time enrolled students each year. A report outlining the proposed plan and recommendations is required by December 1, 2026, and the new section will expire on July 1, 2027. The bill also includes provisions for funding that is separate from the state's basic education program and establishes guidelines for charter schools to operate the transition to kindergarten program.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.300.072
Engrossed Bill: 28A.300.072
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.300.072