Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance workforce development by funding an online program for early childhood development educators. It focuses on making professional training accessible to Minnesota residents, including high school students interested in early childhood education.

Main Provisions

• Funding: Allocates $750,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the workforce development fund to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. This funding will support the creation and management of the online early childhood development program.

• Access: The program will be available at no cost to early childhood educators and high school students in Minnesota.

• Reimbursement: Up to $250,000 each year will reimburse participating schools for program support costs. At least 50% of reimbursements must go to schools outside the seven-county metropolitan area.

Program Features

• Credentials and Courses: Offers courses in English and Spanish necessary to earn a child development associate credential. Includes continuing education units accredited by international bodies and health and safety courses meeting federal requirements.

• High School Integration: The program can be included in high school career and technical education if requested by school districts.

• Content Scope: Covers early childhood development from birth to five years old, including developmental milestones, health and safety, and support for children with special needs.

• Interactive Components: Incorporates videos, interactive games, knowledge checks, and writing assignments.

• Progress Tracking: Provides system capabilities for tracking course completion and professional development.

• Accessibility: Designed to be accessible on various devices, with both synchronous and asynchronous learning options.

• Support and Community: Offers support via a customer help desk and fosters a professional learning community among educators.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a new appropriation for a one-time project focused on developing an online educational program specifically aimed at early childhood educators in Minnesota, expanding access and support for professional development in this field.

Relevant Terms

• Workforce development
• Early childhood education
• Child development associate credential
• Continuing education units
• Professional development
• High school career and technical programs
• Learning management system