CS for CS for SB 1722 - Early Learning Summary

• Creates the Office of Early Learning within the Department of Education to independently administer the school readiness program and Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program, with an executive director accountable to the Commissioner of Education.

• Establishes Part VI of Chapter 1002 creating a comprehensive school readiness program with early learning coalitions serving eligible children, including at-risk children, economically disadvantaged children, and children of working families.

• Requires school readiness program providers to meet health and safety standards, implement approved curricula, maintain insurance coverage, and execute statewide provider contracts with provisions for probation and termination.

• Sets eligibility priorities for school readiness services with first priority to children from families receiving temporary cash assistance, followed by at-risk children, economically disadvantaged children of working families, and other specified categories.

• Consolidates and reorganizes early learning program statutes by transferring school readiness program provisions from Chapter 411 to Chapter 1002, repealing obsolete sections, and requiring development of a reorganization plan for the Office of Early Learning by October 1, 2013.