The Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Communities of Practice (CoPs) are funded through the 21CSLA Equity-Centered Leadership Grant, which supports professional learning that strengthens access, opportunity, and inclusion for historically underserved and marginalized learners. This grant prioritizes leadership and instructional practices that promote equitable outcomes across early learning systems. Through this grant-funded series, TK educators engage in collaborative professional learning focused on developmentally appropriate practice, play-based instruction, and intentional alignment with the California Preschool Learning Foundations and the P–3 continuum. Sessions emphasize reflective practice, peer collaboration, and practical strategies that can be immediately applied in TK classrooms. The TK CoPs are designed to build collective capacity, support equity-centered instructional decision-making, and strengthen TK’s role as a critical bridge between early education and the K–12 system.

GUIDING QUESTION How can equity-centered leaders support integration of the principles and practices of Universal Design for Learning strategies to increase access and inclusion for all students? LEARNING OUTCOME Leaders can identify principles and practices of the Universal Design for Learning strategies in order to increase access and inclusion for all students.

Through shared learning in this Community of Practice, and by drawing on the collective wisdom and insights of your colleagues, you will have the opportunity to: Gain an enhanced understanding of the research on personal growth & development Set personalized strategic goals that will make your life more fulfilling Practice implementing strategies and make progress towards your goals Develop a self-care plan that is specific to your needs Feel more agency and power in your life

Our network is dedicated to driving meaningful change in educational practices through a collaborative improvement journey. In the first year, participants will learn from Matt McCue, Improvement Facilitator for the System Improvement Leads, in partnership with COE leaders through four powerful learning sessions designed to strengthen capacity, share strategies, and build systems that support lasting improvement. District teams—comprising 5–7 members—are encouraged to join. We recommend assembling a diverse team that includes both leadership and teachers from special education, as well as representation from general education leadership and teachers, along with counselors, coaches, and other team members that you believe would be high impact on your team.

This event is open to select schools in Madera Unified (Adams, Parkwood, & Rose) Guiding Coalition teams and Yosemite Unified schools and to those district leaders.

Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) is more than an expansion—it’s a new foundation for student success. Join us for a day of learning to promote age-appropriate pedagogy, navigate operational shifts, and strengthen P–3 alignment to ensure your youngest learners have a high-quality, equitable start.

Educational leaders and paraprofessionals will learn about Tier I instruction and support for best practices in PLCs.