NY A10797

Commissioner of Education shall examine, evaluate, and make recommendations on education and development of children from birth through five years of age in consultation with the Department of Health, Office of Children and Family Services, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and the Early Childhood Advisory Council.

Commissioner shall review state laws, regulations, programs and services including requirements for education in public and non-public schools, pre-kindergarten programs, day care centers, family day care, early intervention programs, and special education settings.

Commissioner shall analyze requirements for developmental services, health and family support services, and education/certification/training standards for personnel (teachers, assistants, day care providers, directors) working with children birth through five years.

Commissioner shall review federal, state, and local funding streams for early childhood education across all relevant settings and programs.

Department must report findings, conclusions and recommendations within eight months to the Governor, legislative leadership, and relevant committee chairs, including recommendations for strengthening access and quality of programs and consolidating funding, oversight and enforcement.