On Thursday, January 16th, the MVSD Board of Trustees voted to remove TK as a grade level for the 2025-26 school year and beyond. As we continue developing community-supported Transitional Kindergarten (TK), we need accurate donation estimates to fund the 2025–2026 school year. Superintendent Kaufman has indicated that funding must be secured by April, and we recognize the urgency and scale of this effort.
Please provide your pledge estimate using the form below. Data is encrypted, and all pledge amounts will remain confidential.
*Pledges are non-binding and for informational purposes only*
Funding Goal
Our goal is to raise $2.2 million to ensure TK access for every four-year-old in MVSD. While the district initially estimated a cost of $1.91 million for 242 students, the revised projection is closer to $2.3 million. While current community engagement is suggesting that fewer than 242 students may enroll, we’re estimating that we will need to raise $9,000 per student.
Donation Guidance
To ensure equity and public access to TK, we encourage families to contribute more than the average per-student cost where possible. The recommended donation for families enrolling in 2025–2026 is $14,000 per child. However, any contribution helps us reach our goal. As engagement grows, we may be able to lower the recommended pledge amount. These pledges are non-binding.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the recommended donation higher than on the flier?
It reflects updated engagement and cost projections.
- Is my donation tax-deductible?
Consult your tax professional for guidance. Donations should be fully deductible for families not enrolled in TK. For TK enrolled families, amounts donated beyond $9,000 (the average program cost per child) should be tax deductible and eligable for corporate matching.
- Who will receive the donations?
We aim to partner with an existing 501(c)(3), like Kiddo!, or establish our own entity. MVSD will ultimately receive all contributions.
- Can my company match my donation?
Likely yes within a 501(c)(3) framework. Consult your tax professional.
- Who is eligible for TK?
All children who turn 4 by September 1st can enroll in TK.
- What happens to our contibution if the TK program is not restored in 25/26?
Funds will be returned to each contributor. There may be some minor escrow / banking fees deducted. Forseeable expenditures will be identified before money is collected.
- What happens if we raise more than needed?
Once we have a clear idea of actual enrollement and costs, we'll true up our donation estimates to be as accurate as possible.
- Will the district contribute to funding?
It is unlikely, but we’re exploring all options.
- What about funding beyond the 2025/2026 school year?
Our immediate goal is to bring back the program next year so that more long term funding can be pursued and TK in Mill Valley can be restored indefinitely.
- Have more questions?
Contact Jordan Shively at 925-699-5808 (text or call).
Thank you for supporting equitable access to TK in our community.