Bill > SB181

This bill modifies Oklahoma's regulations for child care center directors and master teachers by extending the continuing education cycle from annual to biennial (two-year) and creating exemptions for master teacher educational qualifications. Specifically, the bill allows individuals to qualify as a master teacher if they have either two years of full-time experience in child care or education, or have completed six credit hours in child care-related subjects from an Oklahoma higher education institution or technology center. The bill maintains existing provisions that allow individuals with bachelor's or postgraduate degrees to meet director educational requirements. Additionally, the bill preserves existing square footage requirements for infant rooms in child care facilities, with different standards for facilities opened before and after November 1, 2016. The changes will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing child care centers ample time to adapt to the new regulations. These modifications aim to provide more flexibility in staffing and professional development requirements for child care centers while maintaining educational standards.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb181&Session=2600