Provides relative to the Cecil J. Picard LA 4 Early Childhood Program (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)
Impact
The implementation of HB 954 is set to reform early childhood education regulations by replacing the previous statute, thereby clarifying the funding structure and eligibility requirements for the Cecil J. Picard LA 4 Program. Under this bill, participating school systems are encouraged to collaborate with various early childhood providers, including Head Start and similar programs, to maximize resources. The state will also oversee the program to evaluate its effectiveness, improving children's educational outcomes and laying a stronger foundation for their future schooling.
Summary
House Bill 954, also known as the Cecil J. Picard LA 4 Early Childhood Program, aims to enhance early childhood education in Louisiana by establishing a program for developmental classes for four-year-olds. It mandates the allocation of dedicated state funding to public school systems that apply for this purpose, ensuring that the program adheres to specific eligibility criteria while promoting early developmental activities. Children categorized as 'at risk' can access this program at no cost, while those who are not at risk may incur fees based on a sliding scale. The bill is designed to provide equitable access to early childhood education across the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 954 appears to be positive among stakeholders advocating for early childhood education. Legislators, education advocates, and parents have shown support, emphasizing the need for accessible education that can significantly enhance child development in the crucial early years. However, there might be concerns about the program's effectiveness in reaching all eligible children and skepticism among some groups about financing models and resource allocations given the state's budget limitations.
Contention
While the overall sentiment is supportive, there are points of contention regarding the sliding fee structure for non-at-risk children and the adequacy of funding as specified under the bill. Some legislators raised concerns about potential inequities in access due to financial burdens on families not classified as 'at risk', as well as the limitations in collaborating with non-school providers. The requirement for public school systems to allocate a percentage of funding increases for collaborations could also lead to difficulties among smaller districts that may not have the infrastructure to engage effectively with outside providers.
Authorizes public or private entities to make certain donations to participating school systems for children enrolled in the Cecil J. Picard LA 4 Early Childhood Program classes. (7/1/14) (EN DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Creates the Early Childhood Care and Education Network and the Tiered Kindergarten Readiness Improvement System. (gov sig) (RE1 SEE FISC NOTE EX See Note)
Creates the Early Childhood Care and Education Commission and pilot programs for community early childhood care and education networks (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Changes references to "at-risk" students to students who are "economically disadvantaged" throughout Title 17 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Provides for transfer of the lead agency for the Child Care and Development Fund Block Grant and the transfer of oversight and administration of licensing and regulation of early learning centers from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Department of Education. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)