Families of Ceres children who turned 4 by April 2, 2023 may be surprised to know that, under new state eligibility guidelines, their child qualifies for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) for the 2023-24 school year. To assist families in enrolling a child in TK or Kindergarten, the Ceres Unified School District is hosting a Registration Fair from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3 in the Argus/Endeavor Multiuse Room, 2555 Lawrence Street, Ceres.

In addition to registration assistance for students not already enrolled in TK or kindergarten, the event will include free taco dinners and ice pops, children’s activities, resources and prizes. Families are encouraged to bring their child’s birth certificate, immunization record, a utility bill and second proof of residence.

CUSD’S full-day TK and kindergarten programs are taught by credentialed teachers, many of whom will be on hand at the May 3 event to meet prospective students. The district also offers free after-school care until 6 p.m. for children in grades TK-8, student Chromebooks, strong social-emotional supports, free breakfasts and lunches and a Super Summer Academy.

Transitional kindergarten serves as a stepping stone to kindergarten, equipping young children with foundational skills for success later in school. A 2017 study by the American Institutes for Research showed that students who attend TK “enter kindergarten with stronger mathematics and literacy skills and are more engaged in their learning.”

For more information about CUSD’s TK or kindergarten programs, call (209) 556-1540 or visit https://www.ceres.k12.ca.us/o/cusd/page/school-enrollment.