The bill amends RCW 28A.300.072 to rename the transitional kindergarten program as the "transition to kindergarten program" and establishes it in statute with the aim of helping eligible children prepare for success in kindergarten. The program is not classified as part of the state's basic education program. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction is tasked with administering the program, which includes adopting rules for funding allocation, minimum standards, and requirements. School districts, charter schools, and state-tribal education compact schools are required to develop policies for eligibility, recruitment, and enrollment, prioritizing low-income families and children needing additional preparation.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the program, including enrollment limitations to eligible children, the administration of a skills inventory, and the assignment of a statewide student identifier. It mandates a local needs assessment before starting or expanding the program and prohibits charging tuition or excluding children based on disabilities. Funding for the program will be based on specific distribution formulas and will prioritize programs that operated in previous years. The bill also allows charter schools to operate the transition to kindergarten program, expanding access to early education resources.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.300.072