§ 21 — Early education and care career ladder

[ Text of section added by 2024, 140, Sec. 36 effective January 15, 2025. See 2024, 140, Sec. 253.]Section 21. (a) The department shall maintain an early education and care career ladder as considered under clause (11) of the second paragraph of section 5.(b) The career ladder shall include, but not be limited to: (i) minimum recommended salaries and compensation for each level of the career ladder that are commensurate with the salaries of public school teachers with equivalent education, credentials and training required for a position; (ii) minimum recommended benefits for early education and care provider staff including, but not limited to, health insurance, retirement benefits, paid vacation and other leave time; and (iii) recommendations for linking professional development and educational credentials to increased compensation and leadership opportunities in early education and care. Prior to establishing or revising the career ladder, the department shall solicit public input.(c) The department shall review the career ladder's compensation structure and benefits guidelines annually and update them, as needed, based on increased cost of living or any other factors deemed relevant by the department to determine appropriate compensation for the field.