WA SB5769

Renames "transitional kindergarten" to "transition to kindergarten program" and establishes it in statute to help eligible children prepare for kindergarten, while clarifying the program is not part of basic education

Limits enrollment to children at least four years old by August 31st who need additional kindergarten preparation, with priority given to lowest-income families and children most in need

Requires local child care needs assessments before starting or expanding programs, and mandates the Washington kindergarten inventory of developing skills be administered to enrolled children

Caps state-funded enrollment at levels specified in the appropriations act starting 2025-26, with funding priority given to programs that operated during 2024-25; limits future expansion to 5% annual growth statewide

Requires the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to submit a phase-in plan to the legislature by December 1, 2026, prioritizing communities with highest unmet needs and lowest kindergarten readiness results