Section 302L-2 - Early learning systemThere is established an early learning system that shall ensure a spectrum of high-quality early learning opportunities for children throughout the State, from prenatal care until the time they enter kindergarten, with priority given to underserved or at-risk children. The early learning system shall be developed and administered by the executive office on early learning to the extent permissible by law. The early learning system shall:
(1) Be widely accessible and voluntary for both those served and program and service providers;(2) Be a cohesive, comprehensive, and sustainable system in which:(A) All existing early learning programs and services, whether publicly- or privately-run, which consist of a variety of early learning approaches, service deliveries, and settings, including center-based programs, family child care programs, family-child interaction learning programs, and home-based instruction programs designed to promote early learning, are coordinated, improved, and expanded;(B) Public and private resources are maximized; and(C) The use of public facilities for either publicly- or privately-run early learning programs is maximized;(3) Provide high-quality early learning experiences with: (A) Standards-based content and curriculum, and accountability; and(B) Sufficient numbers of well-qualified educators and administrators who are fairly compensated and have access to continuing professional development;(4) Offer opportunities for family and community engagement and parent education and support; and(5) Be sensitive to family choice and cultural diversity.Amended by L 2017, c 202,§ 6, eff. 7/1/2017.Amended by L 2012, c 178, § 11, eff. 7/1/2012.L Sp 2008, c 14, pt of §2 .