The bill amends RCW 43.216.085 to enhance the early achievers quality improvement awards program, which aims to improve the quality of early care and education in Washington. Key objectives include improving educational outcomes for children, providing accessible information to parents about child care quality, and supporting professional development for early childhood providers. The bill mandates participation in the early achievers program for licensed child care centers and early childhood education programs receiving state subsidies, while allowing voluntary participation for those not receiving state funds. Additionally, it establishes a new intermediate level within the program to assist participants in transitioning to higher quality ratings.

Significant changes include the introduction of specific eligibility criteria for quality improvement awards, which now require that at least five percent of enrolled children in participating programs receive state subsidies or are part of early childhood education initiatives. The bill also outlines provisions for granting extensions to participants who face exceptional circumstances, and it allows for the acceptance of national accreditation as a qualification for early achievers program ratings. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration with tribal governments and recognizes the sovereignty of federally recognized tribes in relation to the program's requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.216.085