CT SB00297

Designates the Department of Education as the lead agency for school readiness programs effective October 1, 2010.

Expands eligible school readiness program providers to include local and regional boards of education, regional educational service centers, family resource centers, child day care centers, Head Start programs, preschool programs, and other programs meeting established standards.

Requires the Department of Education to establish standards for school readiness programs covering staff-child interactions, curriculum content including preliteracy development, lesson plans, parent involvement, staff qualifications and training, transition to school, and administration.

Mandates that curriculum content standards establish the skills and information children should possess before entering kindergarten.

Raises minimum staff qualification requirements effective July 1, 2015, requiring classroom staff to have either a bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related approved field, or certification with an endorsement in early childhood education or special education.