2025–2026 | Jefferson & Hope Elementary Schools

Carlsbad Unified is launching a Full-Day Kindergarten Pilot at Jefferson and Hope Elementary Schools beginning in the 2025–2026 school year. All kindergarten classes at both pilot schools will follow the extended-day schedule.

• Intradistrict Transfer Process for Pilot Program
• Hope Full-Day Kindergarten Orientation
• Jefferson Full-Day Kindergarten Orientation - English
• Jefferson Full-Day Kindergarten Orientation - Spanish

What’s Happening Now

👥 Kindergarten Task Force

The Kindergarten Task Force has begun meeting to:

• Develop the daily schedule
• Plan instructional and enrichment activities

🔁 Intradistrict Transfer (School of Choice) Process

• Families will have the opportunity to request an intradistrict transfer either out of or into the pilot schools.
• Transfer notifications will be sent in early May to help families plan for the school year and arrange Kids Care enrollment if needed.

📅 Informational Family Event

Families at participating pilot schools will be invited to attend a Full-Day Kindergarten Round-Up event in late May, which will include:

• Program overview
• Sample bell schedule
• Q&A session with staff

📌 Key Information

• Under California state guidelines, kindergarten is included in K–3 class size averages, capped at 24:1 per school site.
• CUSD is collaborating with district leadership and the teachers' union to ensure appropriate class sizes, staffing, and instructional support.

🎯 Our Goal

To offer an engaging, developmentally appropriate extended-day kindergarten program where students thrive and teachers are well-supported.

Questions?

Please contact Kimberly Fuentes, Director of Elementary Education, at kfuentes@carlsbadusd.net