HB 1042 - DIGEST

Declares that the early childhood education and assistance program is a comprehensive preschool program designed to aid at-risk children, and to enhance readiness for success in school and life. The needs of the children and their families will be best served if it is consolidated with other early childhood services.

Finds that administering similar programs from the same agency will have the benefit of improving connections with social supports, better connection between the child care programs and the preschool program for both the families and the providers, and greater administrative efficiencies.

Creates a nine-member steering committee, which committee shall advise the department on the ongoing promotion and operation of the early childhood education and assistance program. This advice shall include: (1) Program standards, which shall be guided by appropriate research;

(2) Development of partnerships among providers of early learning programs;

(3) Development of opportunities for professional development; and

(4) Identifying opportunities to build upon existing programs and resources by increasing program quality, connecting related services, and simplifying program administration.

Repeals RCW 28A.215.140 and 28A.215.190.