The bill seeks to amend the "Rhode Island Prekindergarten Education Act" to establish a universal prekindergarten education system for all children aged three and four. It aims to expand early care and education programs for infants and toddlers under age three, using a mixed-delivery system that includes state and federal investments. The goal is to achieve universal access when at least 70% of children in the specified age group are enrolled in high-quality programs. The bill also stipulates that prekindergarten teachers and teaching assistants should receive median wages at least equal to those of public kindergarten staff with similar qualifications and experience. It requires the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Human Services to collaborate on an annual report and growth plan to reach universal access, focusing on investment targets, workforce qualifications, competitive compensation, provider capacity, and facility sufficiency.

The bill introduces new provisions for the prekindergarten curriculum, learning standards, and support for special needs students and English language learners. It emphasizes the alignment of standards and curriculum from prekindergarten to third grade and mandates the development of kindergarten transition strategies by Local Education Agencies (LEAs). The Department of Human Services is tasked with reporting on the impact of capital funds for early learning facilities by December 31, 2024, and the bill encourages the establishment of programs to help providers improve facilities to meet licensing standards. It also amends the Early Childhood Workforce Development section to support the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood program and creates a working group to identify barriers to entering the early childhood education workforce. The bill repeals sections 16-87-3 and 16-87-5 of the General Laws, which relate to the planning phase of a pilot prekindergarten program and associated reporting requirements, and is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7497: 16-87-4