Bill > S0119

This bill establishes a comprehensive licensure system for early childhood educators in Vermont, creating a new Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators within the Office of Professional Regulation. The bill defines three levels of early childhood educator licenses (Early Childhood Educator I, II, and III), each with increasing responsibilities and educational requirements. To obtain a license, educators must meet specific qualifications, including educational attainment ranging from a certificate program to a bachelor's degree, and pass required examinations. The licensure system will require professionals working with children from birth to eight years old to be licensed, with some exceptions for teachers already licensed by the Agency of Education. The bill includes provisions for license renewal every two years, continuing education requirements, and a transitional licensing process to help existing educators meet the new requirements. To support this new system, the bill authorizes the creation of five new positions in the Office of Professional Regulation and appropriates $1,400,000 in fiscal year 2026 to implement the licensure program. The new licensing requirements will be phased in, with full implementation set for July 1, 2027, providing time for current early childhood educators to prepare and obtain the necessary credentials.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.119