TK Multilingual Learner Screening
Information about the transitional kindergarten (TK) multilingual learner screening requirements authorized by California Education Code Section 48004.Background | Approved List of Screening Instruments | Next Steps | Screening Requirements | Request for Information | Implementation Timeline | Legal References | Contact Information
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 (CDE) shall, with approval from the Executive Director of the State Board of Education (SBE), establish an approved screening instruments list and implementation guidelines to support local educational agencies (LEAs) in meeting these statutory requirements, ensuring that multilingual learners in TK who need language development support are identified using a developmentally appropriate instrument.
Approved List of Screening Instruments
In accordance with statutory deadline established by EC Section 48004(b)(1)(A), the State Superintendent of Public Instruction with approval of the Executive Director of the SBE has selected the following screening instruments.
| Organization | Title | Age Range | Languages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ballard & Tighe Publishers | IPT Early Childhood | Ages 3–5 | English and Spanish |
| Data Recognition Corporation | preLAS | Ages 3–5 | English and Spanish |
These screening instruments were selected following a rigorous evaluation process led by staff and subject-matter experts from the CDE and SBE. The panel evaluated submissions against the five statutory requirements in EC Section 48004(d) and implementation readiness criteria.
Next Steps
2026–27 School Year: Voluntary Field Testing
LEAs may voluntarily participate in field testing of the approved screening instruments during the 2026–27 school year. Information about field test participation, training, and technical assistance will be provided to LEAs following contract execution with approved vendors.
2027–28 School Year: Mandatory Statewide Implementation
Beginning in the 2027–28 school year, all LEAs serving students in TK shall screen eligible students using an approved screening instrument from the list above.
Screening Requirements
Commencing with the 2027–28 school year, all LEAs serving students in TK shall screen TK students whose primary language is a language other than English, as indicated on a home language survey administered upon the student's enrollment. Students must be screened within 30 days of enrollment in a TK program using an approved screening instrument from the list above.
Note: Results of screening administered pursuant to EC Section 48004 shall not be used for any of the following:
- To identify a pupil as an English learner pursuant to EC Section 306
- Any high-stakes purpose, including, but not limited to, teacher or other school staff evaluation, accountability, pupil grade promotion or retention, identification for gifted or talented education, reclassification of English learners, or identification as an individual with exceptional needs
Request for Information
Pursuant to EC Section 48004, the CDE invited interested parties to submit screening instruments for consideration and potential inclusion on the state's approved list.
Please see the document linked below for information about the screening instrument submission process.
Implementation Timeline
December 1, 2025, by 4:00 PM PSD: Complete RFI submission due
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.