Why do we need to save TK? We saved TK!

Thanks to the amazing efforts of this community and a generous contribution from Kiddo!, MVSD held a special board meeting and voted to reinstate TK for 25-26. More info about enrollment here.

The Ask:

The recommended donation for families enrolling in 2025–2026 is $14,000 per child. All donations help us ensure equitable access to TK for the 2025-26 academic year. We must provide a total of $1.8 million to MVSD ~~in full by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025~~. We're keeping the fundraiser open until we formally have to hand over the funds to MVSD until the first enrollment deadline of May 2nd. Help spread the word to keep making this more equitable for families enrolling in TK.

✅ Tax-deductible (we’re a 501c3)
✅ Corporate matching accepted
✅ Refundable if we don’t make our goal

Testimonials about TK in Mill Valley:

"My son has grown by leaps and bounds in the few short months since the school year began. He is excelling at math learning and literacy and has already surpassed the next grade level socio-emotional benchmarks. While we loved our preschool, we know that this accelerated progress is due to the wonderful teaching staff and curriculum at Tam Valley. TK is not just a third year of preschool — it is preparatory education for kindergarten and beyond. Every child deserves to be set up for educational success. And no matter how exceptional a preschool may be, there is no replacement for TK." - Ana Heller, TK 2024-25 · Tam Valley Elementary

"Our youngest is thriving in TK. The last 5 months have made such a difference in her social/emotional development and love of school. As parents we’re beyond impressed by her teacher! Our oldest child wasn’t eligible for TK and it’s been very clear to us just how valuable this TK program is for our kids." - Courtney Stone, TK 2024-2025 · Park Elementary

"My daughter is currently in TK at SPS, and my oldest attended TK at Edna. I’ve seen firsthand how it has prepared my two older daughters (ages 4 and 6) for success and helped them develop a love of learning. I’m hopeful my two younger children will have this same opportunity, as it has made such a positive impact on our family." - Taylor Mort, TK 2023-2024 & 2024-2025 · Edna & Strawberry

"TK is critical in the district reaching more financially diverse members of the community. TK programs bolsters working families in an increasingly demaning place to thrive. This program is an investment in the future of all children and families in our district." - Katie Struble, TK 2023-2024 · Edna Maguire

"We have no personal stake in the continuation of the TK program, as we have no younger children. But, I have to write to emphasize how important this program is for neurodivergent children. We had no idea that our son was on the autism spectrum until he began TK. With the patient, kind staff at Edna, including the school psychologist, counselor, his teacher, special education staff, and the Principal, we have begun to understand the unique wiring of our bright little boy." - Anonymous, 2024-2025 · Edna Maguire

"Our son had struggled in preschool, hindering his educational and social emotional growth in many ways. However, in TK he immediately found a comfort zone and we saw an incredible transformation in one short year, thanks in no small part to the reliability of the program, the support of the school community as a whole, and the high skill level of his teacher. In short, our son grew in so many ways as a person that year. It is true that our community does have many resources but nothing compares to the holistic care from a well-designed school program and its greater community." - Jesse Silverstein, TK 2022-2023 · Edna Maguire

Common Questions:

Funding & Budget
- Q: Why is the fundraising target $2.2M instead of the original $1.9M cut?
  The $2.2M reflects updated state-mandated staffing ratios (10:1 student-to-staff for 2025-26) and projected enrollment growth due to expanded eligibility for younger children.
- Q: What happens if the $2.2M goal isn’t met?
  Donations are fully refundable if the district does not accept our donation. Refunds typically are applied to the original payment method within 5-10 business days automatically. If you donated via paper check, we will reach out to issue you a refund check.
- Q: Why can’t the district use reserves or delay cuts?
  The district claims immediate cuts are necessary to avoid state oversight and protect its bond rating. Critics argue reserves could buy time, but officials prioritize long-term fiscal stability.
- Q: Why is this fundraiser not through Kiddo!?
  Kiddo! is focused on arts education and unable to broaden their scope at this time. They have donated $500,000 to our cause and we are so grateful for their support!
- Q: What's with the fees?
  All fees go to our payment processors. This allows us the flexibility to issue refunds if needed, and to offer flexible payment options, including credit card, ACH transfer, Apple Pay, and PayPal. Payments via check will not incur fees.
Program Logistics
- Q: Where will TK classrooms be located?
  Classrooms will likely mirror current TK sites (e.g., Strawberry, Edna, Tam, Old Mill and Park), but final placements depend on enrollment and kindergarten demand.
- Q: What are the birthdate eligibility requirements?
  Children must turn 4 by September 1 to enroll. Please see the TK FAQ on the MVSD website linked below for more information.
- Q: Does the community-funded TK follow state guidelines?
  Yes. The program operates under California’s TK standards, including credentialed teachers and curriculum, despite being parent-funded.
- Q: When will families know if TK is confirmed?
  Clarity will come after the April 4 fundraising deadline. MVSD will finalize enrollment and classroom plans once funds are secured. We are working with MVSD to advance enrollment and provide scenarios for classroom plans.
School Placement
- Q: What if my child isn’t placed at my preferred school?
  Placements are not guaranteed, though proximity may help. TK locations depend on kindergarten enrollment, which could displace TK classrooms at crowded schools.
- Q: Are TK teachers guaranteed to return?
  No. Staffing depends on district hiring, though credentialing requirements ensure qualified teachers.
Transparency & Advocacy
- Q: Why won’t MVSD open TK enrollment now?
  The district insists on securing funds first, fearing low enrollment could jeopardize the program. Parents argue early registration would improve accuracy. We are working with MVSD to explore the viability of opening up registration.
- Q: Will the district promote fundraising efforts?
  Requests for promotion via ParentSquare or the MVSD website are pending. Community-led outreach (e.g., banners, yard signs, WhatsApp) is underway.
- Q: What accountability exists for prior budget mismanagement?
  No clear answer. Parents demand transparency about why TK was cut abruptly and whether state/county funding options were explored.
Long-Term Viability
- Q: Is this a one-time solution or renewable for future years?
  Currently framed as a stopgap for 2025-26, but advocates aim to pressure the district or state for sustainable funding models.

Why did we need to save TK?

On January 16, the MVSD Board of Trustees voted to remove TK for the 2025-26 school year and beyond due to a $7.3M budget shortfall. Without financial support, this critical program will end.

Marin County Office of Education has spoken out against the cancellation of TK: Marin County Superintendent of Schools John Carroll said research indicates that “TK and early childhood education have an outsized positive effect on outcomes later in life...it's an equity issue.”

Resources:

TK FAQ from Mill Valley School District
About TK in California
Upcoming MVSD Board Meetings
Early Education Marin 501(c)(3) documentation
Donation Agreement for Save MV TK Fundraiser
Marin IJ article: Marin education office opposes Mill Valley TK cuts
TK Parent Testimonials
Early Education Marin Board

Donuts & a Fire Truck Ride to School!