§ 6-87-103 — Academic approval

(a) By no later than January 1, 2024, each early learning center approved for licensure by the Department of Education and receiving public funds under this chapter shall: (1) Meet all health and safety standards previously required by the Department of Human Services; and (2) (A) Obtain approval from the Department of Education for adherence to the requirements of the Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System established under this chapter regarding kindergarten readiness as determined by the State Board of Education. (B) The Department of Education shall base its approval under subdivision (a)(2)(A) of this section on an early learning center's satisfactory participation in the Unified Early Childhood Care and Education System, including without limitation unified accountability and coordinated enrollment, as determined by the state board. (b) The state board shall: (1) Conduct a comprehensive review of all state standards and rules for all licenses at least every five (5) years; and (2) Provide a public process through which early learning centers may submit specific rules that early educators want reviewed or changed.

Legislative History

Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 58, eff. 7/1/2023.