Requests the Dept. of Social Services and the Dept. of Education to work collaboratively to ensure that children enter kindergarten ready to learn and to submit an annual school readiness report to the governor, legislative education committees, and BESE
Impact
The resolution calls for several key actions, including defining school readiness, establishing reporting requirements and roles for each department, creating a framework for data integration, and assessing the current use of resources. This collaborative approach seeks to reduce duplication of efforts and enhance the efficacy of child development programs in Louisiana. By fostering a cohesive strategy between these two departments, it aims to create a more systematic supporting environment for early learners, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.
Summary
HCR179, a House Concurrent Resolution, urges the Louisiana Department of Social Services and the state Department of Education to collaborate to ensure that children enter kindergarten ready to learn. This resolution emphasizes the importance of school readiness and seeks to establish a uniform definition for it, which will be crucial for the different programs aimed at early childhood education across the state. The resolution highlights the critical developmental milestones that children must meet before they enter formal education, recognizing that school readiness begins well before kindergarten.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR179 appears to be largely positive, as it addresses a vital area of concern for educators and policymakers alike. It emphasizes the need for an integrated system to better prepare children before they begin formal schooling. The resolution has the support of various advocates for early childhood education, reflecting a broader consensus on the significance of investing in early learning initiatives. However, the implementation details and the effectiveness of these proposed measures could be points of potential contention in future discussions.
Contention
While the resolution is aimed at improving the coordination between the Departments, questions may arise regarding resource allocation, accountability, and the integration process. Stakeholders might debate the specifics of how these measures will be implemented, particularly concerning the effectiveness of communication and data sharing between the departments. Additionally, there may be discussions on the extent to which each department will be responsible for carrying out the outlined objectives, which could spark further conversations about governance and oversight in early learning initiatives.
Requests the state Dept. of Education, the La. Dept. of Health, and the Dept. of Children and Family Services to work collaboratively to coordinate opportunities and access to early childhood programs
Requests the Dept. of Education and the Dept. of Children and Family Services to determine the feasibility of developing an operational plan to transfer the Child Care Development Fund to the Department of Education.
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education take action relative to School Readiness Tax Credits with respect to the repeal of the Education Tax Credit
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education coordinate data relative to the early childhood care and education network and submit an annual report relative thereto
Establishes the office of early childhood development and learning to manage a statewide early learning system for children from birth through age five (5), and ensure all children enter school ready to learn.