HB 1365 - Early Learning Summary

• Requires the Office of Early Learning to adopt an observation-based child assessment system for children ages birth to 4 years, subject to legislative appropriation, with phased implementation starting in 2019-2020.

• Mandates observation-based assessments be used to determine kindergarten readiness rates and requires school readiness program providers to conduct these assessments as an eligibility requirement.

• Establishes a statewide implementation plan with specific timelines: birth to 1 year beginning 2019-2020, ages 2-3 years beginning 2020-2021, and age 4 beginning 2021-2022, including mandatory training for instructors every 2 years.

• Provides differential payment of up to 5 percent for child care providers that implement observation-based assessments and demonstrate developmentally appropriate learning gains.

• Takes effect July 1, 2018.