Transitional Kindergarten: The New Kid on the Early Learning Block

In recent years, several states have expanded a new publicly funded learning option: Transitional Kindergarten (TK). TK bridges prekindergarten and kindergarten in its eligibility, requirements, and design. Using Michigan as a case study, we examine TK’s fit in the early learning landscape. Broadly, we find TK in Michigan reduces some socioeconomic gaps in early program enrollment while exacerbating others. Specifically, districts with more White and fewer economically disadvantaged students are more likely to offer TK. Among preschool-age children, noneconomically disadvantaged children are more likely to enroll in TK; among kindergarten-age children, take-up is similar by family income. Finally, some children enroll in TK instead of other public options, but there is no evidence that public slots decline overall.