SF3080 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Online early childhood development professional educator program appropriation
Related bill: HF2872
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill aims to support workforce development by funding a program that offers free online training for early childhood educators. This initiative is designed to provide valuable resources and education to Minnesota residents, high school students, and early childhood professionals to improve their qualifications and skills.
Main Provisions
- Funding Allocation: The bill appropriates $750,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the workforce development fund. This money is intended for the development and operation of an online program specifically for early childhood educators.
- Cost-Free Access: The program will be available at no cost to participants, including Minnesota residents, early childhood educators, and high school students.
- School Reimbursements: Up to $250,000 each year can be used to reimburse participating schools for expenses related to supporting the program. Reimbursements will be on a first-come, first-served basis, with a mandate that at least 50% of the funds must support schools outside the seven-county metropolitan area.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- New Educational Program Funding: This bill establishes a new appropriation specifically for the early childhood development educator program, which did not exist previously.
- Resource and Accessibility Improvements: By creating this online program, the bill aims to increase the accessibility of educational resources, offering coursework in English and Spanish and ensuring compatibility across various devices.
Program Features
- Curriculum: Includes necessary coursework for a Child Development Associate credential, health and safety courses meeting federal requirements, and professional development opportunities.
- Delivery Mode: Offers both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences and supports a wide array of devices.
- Comprehensive Content: Covers early childhood development topics and incorporates interactive components like videos and games.
- Community and Support: Encourages a professional learning community, provides access to content experts, and features a customer support help desk.
Relevant Terms
- Workforce Development Fund
- Early Childhood Development
- Professional Educator Program
- Child Development Associate Credential
- Continuing Education Units
- Online Program
- High School Career and Technical Education
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| March 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Jobs and Economic Development |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This section defines the seven-county metropolitan area for the purpose of school reimbursement allocations.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "473.121",
"subdivision": "subdivision 2"
}
]