Universal Pre-K available for Santa Cruz County families
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION-TV) - Beginning this fall, families across Santa Cruz County will have access to a brighter educational future, starting earlier than ever. Thanks to a major expansion in early childhood education, universal preschool will be available to children ages 2 to 5, with many families qualifying for little to no cost. Transitional Kindergarten (T-K) will be offered free of charge to all eligible children.
At Westlake Elementary School in Santa Cruz, preparations are already underway. Teacher Chrisa Burr is getting ready to welcome her 13th class of T-K students.
“We are going to learn the alphabet and things like that,” Burr said. “But there's lots of just free choice playtime, which is great for executive function in children.”
Under the new policy, any child who turns 4 by September 1 will be eligible for T-K, regardless of income level or immigration status.
“We bring the students here from all backgrounds, all walks of life, and they come together and get to learn together,” Burr added.
While preschool remains optional in California, Karen Lane, Director of Early Childhood Education for Santa Cruz City Schools, says enrolling early makes a significant difference in long-term academic success.
“Ninety percent of a child's brain is developed before the age of five,” Lane said.
Last year, 128 students were enrolled in T-K in Santa Cruz. That number has already increased to 157 this year — and it’s expected to keep rising. With growing enrollment comes increased demand for qualified teachers.
“We’re working with our district and community partners on professional development opportunities and other ways to support staff so that they want to stay in the field and continue supporting these kids,” said Lane.
Burr has witnessed firsthand how early education impacts students beyond the classroom.
“Confidence — when they go to kindergarten, first grade, second grade — they know what to do. They're confident and fully engaged in learning,” she said.
District officials are encouraging families to enroll as early as possible so teachers can prepare adequately. Burr noted that students who join late often struggle to keep up with their peers.
Those curious about CSPP and UPK options can contact the COE's Child Development Resource Center at 831-466-5820 or visit the Santa Cruz COE website.
All children who turn 4 years old by Sept. 1 are eligible for Transitional Kindergarten offered throughout California public schools. TK is not required, but has been shown to help a child's early learning development.
Families interested should contact their local school district.
