TK Multilingual Learner Screening
Information about the transitional kindergarten multilingual learner screening requirements authorized by California Education Code Section 48004.Background
Pursuant to California Education Code (EC) Section 48004, the Legislature recognized that with the expansion of transitional kindergarten (TK), there is an increased need to support California’s youngest multilingual learners, including pupils whose primary language is a language other than English, pupils who are learning two or more languages at the same time, and pupils who are learning a second language while still developing their first language. The Legislature affirmed that the languages and cultures that pupils bring with them are an asset to their learning communities and should be uplifted and celebrated. Research demonstrates the cognitive, economic, and long-term benefits of multilingualism and multiliteracy.
The California Department of Education shall, with approval from the Executive Director of the State Board of Education, establish an approved screening instruments list and implementation guidelines to support local educational agencies in meeting these statutory requirements, ensuring that multilingual learners in TK who need language development support are identified using a developmentally appropriate instrument.
Implementation Timeline
March 2026: Selected screening instruments list made available
2026–27 School Year: Voluntary implementation via field test
2027–28 School Year: Mandatory statewide implementation begins
Legal References
Contact Information
For more information on the TK Multilingual Learner Screening implementation, please email the Language Policy and Leadership Office at lplo@cde.ca.gov.