Whereas, the CFT supports transitional kindergarten; and

Whereas, research is clear that the minimum ratio of 1 adult to 8 children is the standard for early childhood classrooms; and

Whereas, currently the adult-to-child ratio in California varies from 1 adult to 22–35 students in transitional kindergarten classrooms; and

Whereas, many of these same students were previously in classrooms with ratios of 1 adult to 8 children; and

Whereas, health, safety, and an appropriate learning environment are key to a successful educational experience for all children; and

Whereas, having a paraprofessional, paraeducator, or instructional assistant is fundamental to the best practices for young children in transitional kindergarten classrooms;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the California Federation of Teachers support having a paraprofessional, paraeducator, or instructional assistant in all transitional kindergarten classrooms for a minimum of three hours per day.
 

• Passed as Resolution 2 on March 25, 2018
• Submitted by the Early Childhood Education Committee