TN HB1238

Creates a new Division of Early Child Care and Education within the Tennessee Department of Education by December 31, 2026, with a director appointed by and reporting directly to the commissioner

Consolidates administrative responsibility for all state and federally funded early childhood programs, including the Child Care and Development Block Grant, voluntary pre-K, IDEA services for pre-kindergarten children, Head Start, and preschool development grants

Establishes a transition advisory council convening by July 15, 2025, with 8 members including appointees from the governor and legislative speakers, to develop a two-part transition plan with Phase 1 due January 1, 2026 and Phase 2 due October 1, 2026

Requires the department to hire a contractor by July 1, 2025 with expertise in merging early care governance into state education departments, and creates a 15-member provider working group for stakeholder input

Mandates the division publish a strategic plan beginning January 1, 2027 and submit annual progress reports to the General Assembly by October 30 each year addressing challenges and recommended actions