TK & Kindergarten
Enroll
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) at MCCSD
Mason City Community School District’s Transitional Kindergarten (TK) helps children build academic and social skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. This full-day program is designed for children who turn five by September 15 and is offered at Hoover Elementary and Jefferson Elementary. Families interested in TK can contact either elementary school to explore placement options.
Who Benefits from TK?
TK is an excellent choice for young five-year-olds, especially those with summer or fall birthdays, who may need a little extra time to grow academically, socially, and emotionally before starting kindergarten.
Just as children learn to walk and talk at different ages, school readiness also develops on an individual timeline. Families are encouraged to consider their child’s language, social, cognitive, and motor skills when deciding if TK is the right fit. Consulting with your child’s preschool teacher can also help guide the decision.
Why Offer TK?
Research shows that early learning experiences create lasting benefits for children. Our TK program provides:
- A strong academic foundation.
- Reduced need for special education or intervention later on.
- More time for social and emotional development.
- Improved confidence and communication skills.
- Greater readiness for kindergarten success.
How does TK Differ from Preschool and Kindergarten?
| Program | Description |
| Preschool | A half-day, play-based program guided by the Iowa Early Learning Standards. Focuses on exploration and discovery through play. |
| Transitional Kindergarten (TK) | A full-day program that follows kindergarten standards at a slower pace to meet young learners’ needs. Emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. TK students also participate in art, PE, library, and music, following the same schedule as kindergarten. |
TK Curriculum & Readiness Focus
The TK curriculum is aligned with district kindergarten standards and includes:
- Early literacy and math foundations
- Social-emotional growth and self-regulation
- Development of independence and classroom routines
- Preparation for a successful transition to kindergarten
Kindergarten at MCCSD
Kindergarten across the Mason City Community School District offers a warm, engaging, and supportive start to each child’s educational journey. Our caring and experienced teachers create safe, welcoming classrooms where students build strong academic foundations in reading, writing, and math through small-group instruction and hands-on learning. Creativity and curiosity thrive as students explore through art, music, physical education, and STEM activities. Social-emotional growth is a key focus, helping children develop confidence, independence, and teamwork skills. With family involvement, fun field trips, and strong home-school partnerships, our elementary schools – Harding, Hoover, Jefferson, and Roosevelt – work together to ensure every child feels valued, connected, and ready to succeed.
Schedule
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:05 am – 3:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:05 am – 1:40 pm
Complete the online registration application for TK or kindergarten by clicking below.
Register a StudentThe following health screening documents must be completed and returned:
- Elementary Health Information
- Immunization Record or Medical Immunization Exemption Form or Religious Immunization Exemption Form
- Certificate of Dental Screening or Dental Screening Exemption
- Certificate of Vision Screening
- Medication Administration Request Form – if applicable
Welcome, future Riverhawks!
We can’t wait for you to soar with us on this exciting new adventure!
If you have any questions regarding TK or kindergarten registration and enrollment, please contact Amy Graven at 641-421-4401 or agraven@masoncityschools.org or your child’s school office.