Mandatory Kindergaten Could be a Reality with Prop. 13 Reform
The earlier that students can get enrolled in school, the better it is for everyone. Research has shown that the earlier children start learning and interacting with other children, the better lifelong outcomes. Children who attend kindergarten are proven to have better educational outcomes, both having better test scores and better graduation rates. California does not currently require that 5 year olds are enrolled in kindergarten, it is one of 32 states that does not. However, in 2026, that might change. Legislators are planning to introduce a bill to require children to be enrolled in kindergarten programs. This has been proposed multiple times in the past, and it has been shot down every time, mostly due to the cost.
There are ways to find funding for mandatory kindergarten in California. If we reform Proposition 13, it will restore $17 billion every single year to California’s public schools and communities. Prop. 13 reform will allow us to provide more resources to get children enrolled in kindergarten, particularly Latine children who are less likely to be sent to kindergarten. Prop. 13 reform is an equity issue. More resources means that administrators can provide more outreach for underserved communities and students. One bill to require mandatory kindergarten was solely vetoed by the Governor due to the cost. Proposition 13 reform can help us set our students up for success.
Photo by Larry Valenzuela, CalMatters/CatchLight Local
Will this be the year California makes kindergarten mandatory?
By Carolyn Jones | CalMatters | January 5th, 2026