HI SB2826

Establishes a statewide Early Childhood Education Program within the Early Learning System to be administered by the executive office on early learning, providing high-quality education to children in either of Hawaii's two official languages.

Program serves three- and four-year-old children with priority given to those in the year prior to kindergarten eligibility and underserved or at-risk children; enrollment is voluntary.

Office may contract with eligible private and public providers who must incorporate research-based quality standards including positive teacher-child interactions, individual child assessments, family engagement, and alignment with Hawaii early learning and development standards.

Eligible providers must comply with all applicable state and federal laws, and the office shall monitor implementation of quality standards and collect data to evaluate services and inform policy improvements.

Effective date is July 1, 2030, contingent upon ratification of a constitutional amendment (SB1084) permitting appropriation of public funds for private early childhood education programs.