Muratsuchi Bill for Mandatory Kindergarten Passes Education Committee

Torrance, CA - Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi's (D-Torrance) Assembly Bill 1631, which requires children to complete one year of kindergarten before enrolling in first grade, passed the Assembly Education Committee. The measure would be phased in over four years beginning with the 2028-29 school year, effectively making kindergarten mandatory and ensuring children are well prepared to enter first grade.

Currently, kindergarten is not required for students in California. In California, kindergarten is considered a grade level, is factored in calculating average daily attendance (ADA), and is included in the academic content standards, curriculum frameworks, and instructional materials. However, attendance in kindergarten is not mandatory, and compulsory education laws begin at age six, so parents must enroll their children in school once they reach the age of six. With parental input, it is a local decision whether a six-year-old student will be enrolled in kindergarten or be eligible for first grade.

"We know the achievement gap is present before children attend first grade. California is making substantial investments in pre-kindergarten programs, including transitional kindergarten (TK) and the California State Preschool Program (CSPP), providing opportunities for children to have two years of high-quality early education before entering first grade. To fully realize this goal, we must ensure that all children attend kindergarten to build the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to support their ongoing academic and social-emotional success," said Assemblymember Muratsuchi.

"I am grateful for Assemblymember Muratsuchi's leadership on AB 1631 to require the completion of one year in kindergarten before enrolling in the first grade," said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. "Kindergarten is a critical entry point in a student's educational journey and ensuring early access shapes the trajectory of a child's entire life. I am a proud sponsor of this legislation and looking forward to it advancing through the legislative process."

"AB 1631 is about making sure every child has the strong start they deserve," said Jeff Freitas, President CFT -- A Union of Educators and Classified Professionals. "Mandatory kindergarten is an investment in our students, our communities, and our future. When children have access to early learning opportunities that support their academic, social, and emotional development, they are far more likely to thrive in school and beyond. This measure helps ensure that all kids, no matter their zip code or background, can begin their educational journey with the support they need to succeed."

Mandatory kindergarten has the potential to increase equity and reduce opportunity gaps. Research demonstrates the effectiveness of kindergarten attendance, particularly for disadvantaged children. According to the U.S. Department of Education, based upon a nationally representative sample of kindergarteners, Black and Latino children score significantly lower than White children in reading and math at kindergarten entry. One study found that the racial/ethnic differences in achievement and social-emotional skills primarily reflect pre-k differences in these areas.

Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi represents California's 66th Assembly District, which includes El Segundo, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Lomita, Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, San Pedro and Torrance. Muratsuchi is a member of the Assembly Committees on Appropriations, Economic Development, Growth, and Household Impact, Higher Education and Natural Resources.

CONTACT: Bryan C. Singh, (916) 319-2664