S. 5299 — Native Language Educators in Classrooms Act

This section excludes Indian Head Start programs from the nationwide calculations used to determine whether at least 50 percent of Head Start teachers in center-based programs have a baccalaureate or advanced degree in early childhood education by September 30, 2013, and whether education coordinators and teaching assistants meet the specified credential requirements.

This section establishes alternative qualification standards for teachers and teaching assistants in Indian Head Start center-based programs. It permits hiring of staff who, at the time of hire, hold at least a child development associate credential, an early childhood education certificate from an institution of higher education (including a Tribal college or university), or a qualifying state-issued certificate; or who provide proof of enrollment in a program leading to one of those credentials, which must be completed within 2 years of hire. The new standards apply notwithstanding the general baccalaureate degree and other requirements for Head Start staff.

This section requires teachers providing direct services in Early Head Start centers to hold a child development associate credential and have training in early childhood development. It permits Indian Early Head Start programs to hire teachers who, at the time of hire, either possess at least a child development associate credential or an equivalent early childhood education certificate from a higher education institution (including a Tribal college or university) or a qualifying state government entity, or provide proof of enrollment in a program leading to one of those credentials. It defines an Indian Early Head Start program as one operated through an Indian tribe, consortium, alternative agency, or Tribal organization.