Planning TK Classrooms for 2027: What California School Districts Need to Know.

Executive Summary

By the 2026–27 school year, Universal Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is fully in effect in California. Every four-year-old is entitled to TK, so many districts are facing an immediate need for more classroom space. At the same time, California has updated laws and building codes: TK classrooms must follow the same design standards as kindergarten (larger classrooms, child-scaled fixtures, on-site restrooms, etc.), and 2025’s California Building Code (effective Jan 2026) continues to enforce strict safety and accessibility rules. Schools must also honor new TK laws like AB 130 (which limits TK class sizes to 24 and requires one adult per ~10 students) and a September 2026 CDE update that emphasizes play-based, developmentally appropriate learning environments.

Planning now is key. Districts should project TK enrollment and inventory existing rooms, then decide how many new classrooms they need. Important facility considerations include: classroom size (at least 1,350 sq ft including restrooms per new TK classroom), age-appropriate design (low sinks, furniture and toys for 4–5-year-olds), toilet access (on-site restrooms sized roughly one toilet per 20 students), and accessibility features (ramps, wide doors, grab bars, etc. to meet ADA/Title 24).

Modular construction is an attractive solution. A manufacturer like NextMod, Inc. (a Riverside, CA firm building 100% American-made modular schools) can custom-design classroom modules to meet all of the above requirements. Because modular units are built in a controlled factory, quality and code compliance (DSA and Title 24) can be assured from the start. NextMod in particular offers streamlined DSA approvals (stockpile plans approved in as little as three weeks after final plans) and overlaps on-site work with factory work to cut schedules.

This report first summarizes relevant policy and code updates (2024–2026) for TK facilities. It then presents a planning checklist for school leaders (enrollment, site layout, design specs, staffing, codes). Following that, we explain how modular construction (especially NextMod’s approach) can address each checklist item. We note risks and how to mitigate them, and finally outline next steps and a timeline to be ready for fall 2027. Tables compare key standards (classroom size, toilet fixtures, accessibility) and a simple Gantt chart shows a traditional vs. modular schedule.

2024–2026 Policy & Code Updates

- Universal TK and class size law: As of 2025–26, California expanded TK to all eligible 4-year-olds. That means every district must accommodate more TK students. By law (AB 130, 2021), TK classes are capped at 24 students per class, with an adult-to-student ratio of 1:12 starting 2022–23 and 1:10 starting 2023–24 (funding-dependent). Districts must plan classroom space and staff accordingly.

- New TK facility standards (Title 5/CCR): TK rooms must follow updated Kindergarten facility guidelines. Title 5 now requires new TK/K classrooms of at least 1,350 sq ft (that includes the teacher area, storage, plus on-site toilets). Classrooms must allow supervision of the play yard and be near drop-off/bus zones. All windows, sinks, drinking fountains, and furniture in the room must be at child height. Restrooms for TK must be contained in the classroom or in the TK/K complex. In practice, a 24-student TK class typically needs two child-height toilets (since one toilet is usually sized for up to 20 kids) plus sinks.

- Curriculum and space use: A Sept. 2026 CDE letter clarified that TK programs use a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum (no longer a “modified K” program). Classrooms should include areas for free play, exploration and movement as part of daily routines. (This supports including a small play yard or movement space adjacent to the classroom.) The CDE emphasizes safe, engaging environments suited to 4-year-olds. School planners should note that curricula now expect a variety of activity areas (reading nook, art/play centers, etc.), not just rows of desks.

- 2025 California Building Code (Title 24): The latest codes were published July 2025 (effective Jan 1, 2026). These include updated fire/safety and accessibility requirements for schools, though most general standards are similar to the 2022 code. (NextMod, for example, designs units under the 2022 CBC, and those already comply with new 2025 standards.) Key points: TK classrooms are in Education Occupancy (Group E), so plumbing fixtures are set by Title 24’s tables. Under the current code, schools need one toilet per ~30–50 students (depending on gender mix) and lavatories per ~40 students, but Title 5 overrides this for Kindergarten by requiring a toilet in the classroom (see above). Also, all classrooms must have accessible entry routes, door hardware, restroom grab bars, etc., per ADA/Title 24. (For example, doors ≥32″ wide and a ramp instead of steps where needed.) Many districts use stock design checks and DSA Pre-Check to confirm compliance early.

- DSA (Field Act) requirements: Any new or retrofit classroom for TK is a DSA-reviewed project. Modular buildings must be engineered to comply with the K–12 Field Act and fire/life-safety codes. One positive update: DSA Stockpile/Pre-Check. California DSA maintains approved modular building designs (“stockpile”). A district can submit a design to DSA before selecting a site and get approval on standard details. NextMod reports it can get DSA stockpile approval in as few as three weeks after a District “Notice to Proceed” (NTP). That greatly accelerates permitting compared to custom design for each project. (Of course, site-specific items like foundation design and any local reviews still take time.)

Planning Checklist

When planning for new TK classrooms, school facility teams should consider all of the following and build them into the project plan:

- Projected TK Enrollment: Estimate how many TK students you will have each year. Some children may enter older, or class sizes might grow after full implementation. Use an aggressive forecasting model (such as cohort-survival) and update it annually. Compare that to existing classroom counts: some rooms may be repurposed for TK, but likely you will need new space. Account for any transition to full-day TK, too.

- Classroom Size & Layout: Plan on at least 1,350 square feet per new TK classroom (this includes the entire classroom area, plus the square footage of internal restrooms, storage and teacher workspace). Within that space:

- Learning areas: Include diverse zones (e.g. reading corner, play area, table space, art/wet area) as recommended by early childhood design.

- Visibility: The teacher should be able to see the entire room and (ideally) the adjoining playground.

- Windows: Provide windows at child height so students have daylight and views, and so the teacher can supervise outdoor play.

- Restroom Facilities: TK rules require toilets within the TK/K complex. Practically, each new 24-child TK room needs at least two student toilets (each accessible to one gender or both, depending on design) plus lavatories. (By code, one toilet covers ~20 kids.) Fixtures should be at child height. If multiple TK rooms share a wing, you might provide a small common restroom, but with the new code it’s safest to assume toilet(s) in each classroom or adjoining pair of classrooms. Ensure bathrooms have proper ventilation and all elements (toilet height, grab bars, sinks) meet ADA requirements.

- Accessibility: Every new classroom must be accessible to wheelchairs and mobility devices. Key items:

- Entrances: Provide a ramp or level access to the entry door (max slope 1:12) and a door with at least 32″ clear width and lever hardware.

- Interior: Allow a 5-foot turning radius in the classroom and restroom; doors with low thresholds; light switches around 36″ high; sinks with knee clearance; and at least one restroom stall with grab bars.

- Playground/Doors: Exterior access to play areas or drop-off should also have ramps or lifts if steps are involved.

- Path of Travel: Design accessible parking spaces and an accessible path from parking to the TK wing, even if the focus is on the building itself.

- Drop-off and Circulation: Locate TK classrooms close to parent drop-off and bus loading zones. Plan covered walkways from drop-off to the TK building. If using portable or modular units, ensure the path for cranes/trucks is clear.

- Outdoor Learning/Play Yard: TK students need play space adjacent to their classroom. The playground should have a variety of surfaces and equipment for gross motor development (e.g. swings, open areas) and be visible from the classroom or teacher area. Fencing and safety surfacing are required; see CDE’s school playground guidelines.

- Adult-to-Student Ratio and Staffing: Per AB 130, plan classrooms assuming roughly 1 adult per 10 TK students (some of whom may be aides or floating teachers). This affects room layout (space for two adults at tables or in corners), restroom ratios, and costs. If combined K/TK spaces are used, keep TK classes separate per Title 5.

- Utilities and HVAC: Ensure the new classroom has a permanent foundation (slab or pier) and full utility hookups. TK classes cannot use substandard “job trailers” or old portables; the HVAC, lighting and alarms must meet the standards for K–12. Plan for acoustic ceilings, LED lighting and proper air conditioning/heating.

- Code Compliance & Permitting: Hire designers/contractors who know California school codes (Title 5, Title 24, ADA, DSA Field Act). Obtain a DSA application and building permit. If using modular, consider DSA Pre-Check: submit a standard TK classroom design early to speed approval. Coordinate planning with any state or bond funding requirements (e.g. DSA’s SB 149 Stock Plans, if applicable).

- Funding and Procurement: With limited state money for school facilities, investigate grants for TK (such as the TK Facilities Grant Program), or use local funds. California’s Education Code 4217 allows flexible contracts (e.g. design-build or leasing options) for schools. Using a reputable modular manufacturer like NextMod (see below) can align with these rules and still ensure competitive bidding.

How Modular (NextMod) Addresses Each Need

Modular construction (building sections in a factory, then placing them on-site) directly solves many of these checklist items:

- Speed & Concurrent Work: Traditional on-site construction requires doing everything in sequence. With modular, site work and factory work happen at the same time. For example, NextMod can begin building the modules off-site as soon as the plans are approved, while the district finishes foundations and utilities on-site. According to NextMod, their process “reduces timelines” because of this overlap. In practice, a school can go from contract to move-in in under a year, versus 18+ months for conventional construction.

- Custom Sizes & Layouts: Unlike one-size “portables,” NextMod offers fully custom designs. Each TK classroom can be engineered to hit the 1,350 sq ft target and to include the required elements. For instance, NextMod can pre-fabricate a bathroom module with two child-height toilets and sinks built in (matching California’s recommendations). Floors, walls and ceilings can incorporate cubby storage and furniture layouts to suit TK activities. All colors, finishes and roofing can be chosen to match the main campus or district theme. In short, a NextMod unit is not a bare box – it is a tailored classroom shell.

- Quality & Durability: Because modules are built in a controlled Riverside factory, quality control is high. NextMod uses American-made materials and conducts inspections in-process. Wall studs, insulation, and plumbing are installed under cover, so there are no rain delays or vandalism. NextMod’s CEO emphasizes that their mission is “client success” and they deliver “durable, lasting products you can rely on”. In practice, that means a modular classroom will meet or exceed the quality of a conventionally built classroom.

- Code & Compliance: Each NextMod building is designed for California codes. Their FAQ notes that they submit units under the current California Building Code (2022 CBC, in effect now). They are experienced in California K-12 requirements (they mention expertise with DSA and HCD codes). This helps ensure the unit already complies with requirements for safety, fire alarms, ADA, etc., before it’s shipped. NextMod also offers clients help with the DSA process: for stockpile projects, they report being able to secure DSA approval in about three weeks after a Notice to Proceed. In other words, the modular design can be reviewed and cleared by DSA faster than a brand-new custom design, because it follows known standards.

- Accessibility Integration: Modular classrooms can be built to include all required accessible features from day one. For example, ramps and landings can be attached to the modules as part of the package (as in the image below). Doors, sinks and toilets come at the specified heights, and grab bars are installed where needed. NextMod can ensure each classroom is fully ADA-compliant without expensive field modifications.

Modern modular TK classroom with wheelchair ramp and bright exterior – fully compliant design straight from the factory.‍ ‍

- Permanent Appearance: A top concern is that modular units should look permanent. NextMod’s units can mimic brick, stone, stucco, metal panels or other finishes so they blend with existing buildings. For example, this kitchen arts building (below) has a brick-pattern façade and fixed canopy – it was modular in construction, but you’d never know it. Districts can match rooflines, overhangs and architectural trim to the campus style. (They can even install murals or signage on the modules’ walls.) The key point is that the aesthetic is set at the design phase; modular doesn’t force a bland look.

NextMod modular classroom (marked “Culinary Arts”) uses brick-pattern panels and architectural trim to fit in with an existing campus.‍ ‍

- Built-in Toilets & Fixtures: Since most TK rooms need on-site restrooms, modular units can come with bathrooms already installed. NextMod can factory-mount toilets, partitions and child-height sinks inside the module. These bathrooms are built to code (proper ventilation, lights, exit doors) and then simply plug into the site plumbing lines. This avoids the typical field construction delays for restroom rough-in. By planning the fixture count (e.g. two toilets for 24 students), they deliver a ready classroom core with everything in place.

- Staff Ratio and Furniture: Layouts can include space for extra adults (such as a side desk for an aide). NextMod often includes casework and counters that meet Title 5’s height rules so furniture is right for young children. The factory can pre-install cubbies or teacher stations as specified. Districts still choose what movable furniture to bring in, but the fixed elements are done.

- Safety and Supervision: NextMod windows can be sized for visibility, and the modules can be arranged with internal hallways if needed for supervision. They ensure that an exterior door (like a covered entry) is well integrated. The factory can include connectors (electrical, data) so that egress lighting and alarms link seamlessly into the campus system.

- Utility Coordination: On-site, crews need to run power, water, sewer and data to the modular pads. NextMod’s turnkey service can coordinate those trades. Because the building is delivered pre-wired, getting electricity and plumbing up and running can be quicker. The risk that something was omitted is lower since the factory checks it all.

- Flexible Purchase or Lease: NextMod offers both purchase and lease. A district short on capital may lease space and then expand or buy later. This flexibility can help manage budgets. (Any leasing plan must still follow public procurement rules – luckily, Ed Code 4217 explicitly allows such creative arrangements for schools.)

Overall, modular construction addresses nearly every item on the checklist by moving design decisions into a controlled process. District planners can focus on how many classrooms and where to put them, and NextMod will deliver fully built, compliant rooms ready to plug in.

Risks and Limitations (and Mitigations)

Modular is advantageous, but districts should be aware of potential challenges:

- Site Access and Foundation: A crane is needed to set modules onto foundations. Ensure at least one clear access route to the site wide and strong enough for heavy loads (modules can weigh tens of tons). If the site is cramped or on difficult terrain, building in place might be needed instead. Mitigation: Survey the route early; arrange permits for oversized loads; or prepare a temporary road or staging area. NextMod can help with logistics planning.

- Design Changes: Once the modules are in the factory, changes become difficult and costly. Unlike on-site work (where you can still tweak things), a shipped module is built to print. Mitigation: Finalize the design early. Use proven floorplans if possible. Do a complete review of all specifications (doors, fixtures, finishes) before manufacturing starts.

- Utility Timing: Both site utilities and factory building take time. If one is delayed (say site foundation work lags), the module sits idle. Mitigation: Carefully schedule site prep and module construction concurrently. NextMod’s three-week DSA stockpile approval helps lock in design early, so factory can begin without waiting months for a permit. Make sure permit issuance and site contractors are aligned.

- Scope Creep: Because modular is fast, districts may be tempted to add more scope (e.g. custom features) midstream. This can blow the schedule. Mitigation: Limit last-minute changes. Stick to the core program (classroom, restrooms, basic finishes) for the first phase. Any extras (like elaborate media walls) might be done later as add-ons.

- Financial Planning: Modular is usually cost-competitive, but budgets must cover all costs (including site work, delivery, utility hookups). If leasing, remember there are long-term payments. Mitigation: Do a full cost comparison (landwork vs building) ahead of time. Factor in faster occupancy (saving temporary rent on aging portables). Consider phased purchases so cash flow is managed.

- Temporary vs Permanent: Even though we’re planning for a permanent feel, note that modules technically can be relocated. If the district ever needs to move them (to another campus or storage), plan how that would work. Mitigation: While they are permanent now, design foundations to allow safe removal if needed, and keep documentation for re-certification at a new site.

By anticipating these issues and working with an experienced modular partner like NextMod (which provides project management through design, build, delivery and commissioning), most risks can be minimized.

Next Steps & Timeline

Immediate Actions: Convene a planning team this fall (October 2026) to firm up TK enrollment and space needs. Order any necessary site surveys (topography, utilities). Decide on modular vs. site-built – if going modular, issue a Request for Proposals to qualified suppliers like NextMod. At the same time, assemble funding (bonds, grants, etc.) and engage architects or NextMod’s designers to draft floor plans meeting TK requirements (1,350 sf, built-in restrooms, etc.).

Permitting and Approvals: Work on your DSA application in parallel. If using NextMod’s stock design, submit that to DSA immediately – they can issue an Over-the-Counter (OTC) approval in about 3 weeks after you give Notice to Proceed. At the same time, your in-house team or engineer should finalize the foundation and utility plans, and submit the building permit once the DSA number is received.

Construction (Late 2026 – Early 2027): Once DSA permits are in hand (likely late 2026 if on schedule), NextMod will start factory work on the classrooms (which takes about 3–4 months). Meanwhile, hire a contractor to prepare the site: pour concrete pads or footings, run utilities up to the pad, and grade/pave access. Keep the factory informed of any site changes to ensure module dimensions match the foundations exactly.

Delivery & Occupancy (Spring 2027): After site prep (say by April 2027) and when modules finish in factory, schedule delivery. NextMod will truck the units and crane-set them on foundations in a matter of days. Electrical and plumbing crews hook up services, then the building is inspected and turned over. Furnish the room (desks, cubbies, etc.) and train staff on building features.

By summer 2027, the classroom(s) should be ready well before school starts. Compared to a traditional schedule (often 18–24 months), this modular timeline is significantly faster – often cutting a year or more off the project. The simple Gantt chart below illustrates one possible schedule