TK & Kindergarten Enrollment 2026-27

The start of An EPIC Journey

At Ukiah Unified School District, we believe every child’s educational path is an EPIC Journey –one that begins with curiosity, joy, and a strong foundation in early learning. Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten (K) are the first steps in that journey.

Enrollment for the 2026–27 school year is open January 6 through March 31 except for Grace Hudson. Grace Hudson enrollment ends February 20 to allow for its lottery. Parents will be notified of lottery results between March 5-6.

Children age 4 are eligible for TK, and children age 5 are eligible for Kindergarten. Children must reach the ages specified on or before September 1, 2026.

Why Start Your EPIC Journey at Ukiah Unified?

Safe, Caring Schools

Our TK and Kindergarten classrooms are welcoming, structured, and focused on helping each child feel seen, valued, and supported. They are the newest classrooms in the district.

Strong Early Learning Programs

Our teachers specialize in early childhood education and help students build essential academic skills that prepare them for long-term success.

Support for Families

Enrollment help is available in both English and Spanish at every elementary school. Families without internet access are welcome to enroll in person.

How to Enroll

Step 1: Visit the Enrollment Portal
Click “Start Enrollment Online.” You’ll be guided to our secure ParentVUE/Aeries system.

Step 2: Complete the Online Form
Upload supporting documents if available. If you don’t have everything yet, you can still begin the process.

Step 3: Need Support?
Visit any Ukiah Unified elementary school for in-person help. Staff can walk you through each step.

Documents You Need:

Birth certificate
Immunization records
Proof of residence
Emergency contact information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Transitional Kindergarten

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is the first step in a child’s EPIC educational journey. It is designed for children who turn 4 on or before September 1, 2026, and it is voluntary for families.

TK gives children an extra year to develop the academic, social, and emotional skills that help them thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Classrooms offer a warm, developmentally appropriate, play-based environment where children explore early reading and math concepts, practice working with classmates, build confidence, and learn school routines.

TK also includes meals and snacks, supervised play time, and nap or rest time as part of the daily schedule. All TK classes are taught by credentialed teachers and offered at no cost to families.

In short, TK provides eligible four-year-olds with time, support, and a joyful early learning experience before they step into kindergarten the following year.

Does my child have to be in preschool to enroll?

What if I don’t have internet at home?

Can someone help me create an Aeries or ParentVUE account?

Who Can Enroll?

Transitional Kindergarten

For children who turn 4 years old on or before September 1, 2026.
TK gives young learners an extra year to build confidence and develop early academic and social-emotional skills.

Kindergarten

For children who turn 5 years old on or before September 1, 2026.
Kindergarten creates the foundation for literacy, numeracy, communication, and a lifelong love of learning.

Play Dates: Explore Your School!

Our winter play dates are a relaxed, fun way for children and families to visit classrooms, meet teachers, and get to know their new school community.

Families who attend a play date – or complete enrollment by the deadlines – receive a free t-shirt to celebrate the beginning of their EPIC Journey!

All play dates are from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Calpella: Friday, Jan. 23

Frank Zeek: Monday, Jan. 12

Grace Hudson: Thursday, Jan. 15

Nokomis: Tuesday, Jan. 20

Oak Manor: Tuesday, Jan. 13

Yokayo: Thursday, Feb. 26

Tshirt with wildcat graphic — Free T-shirt while supplies last.