The bill amends the "Rhode Island Prekindergarten Education Act" to establish a universal prekindergarten education system for all children aged three and four. It sets a goal for universal access when at least 70% of these children are enrolled in high-quality programs and requires that prekindergarten teachers and teaching assistants be paid median wages at least equal to those of public kindergarten staff with similar qualifications. The bill mandates collaboration between the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Human Services to submit an annual report and growth plan, focusing on investment targets, workforce qualifications, competitive compensation, provider capacity, and facility sufficiency. It also authorizes the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create rules and regulations to meet or exceed quality standards recommended by national education bodies.

The bill includes provisions for a comprehensive prekindergarten curriculum, support for special needs students and English language learners, professional development, child assessments, and coaching. It emphasizes the importance of coordination between prekindergarten and kindergarten programs, including transition strategies. The Department of Human Services is tasked with reporting on the use and impact of capital funds for early learning facilities by December 31, 2024, and the bill supports the renovation or expansion of facilities to meet licensing standards. It sustains and expands the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood program and establishes a working group to address barriers to entering the early childhood education workforce. The bill repeals sections of the General Laws related to the planning phase of the initial pilot prekindergarten program, indicating a move from pilot to established programs, and takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2843: 16-87-4