House Bill 159 Summary

• Creates multiple pathways for early childhood professionals to earn North Carolina Early Childhood Credential, including completion of community college coursework, recognized national credentials (CDA, CCPC, Montessori), or passing a mastery test developed by the NC Community College System.

• Removes requirement that NC Pre-K teacher assistants complete a minimum number of semester hours per year toward an associate degree, effective through December 31, 2023.

• Extends charter school enrollment priority to grandchildren of charter school employees and board members, limited to 15% of total enrollment unless waived by the State Board of Education, effective with 2022-2023 school year.

• Updates school nutrition regulations to align with federal guidelines established by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service and modifies beverage vending restrictions in schools, allowing sugared carbonated soft drinks in high schools until 30 minutes after school day ends.

• Expands North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Board of Trustees from up to 30 members to a number equal to North Carolina's congressional representation, effective July 1, 2023.