Senate Education Committee Passes Legislation that Improves Access to Outdoor Nature Based Preschools
Marchman: “By allowing ONBs to operate full-day programs, we can create job opportunities, make ONBs more accessible to working families, and ensure kids get the quality education they deserve.”
DENVER, CO – Today, the Senate Education Committee passed Senators Janice Marchman, D-Loveland, and Kevin Priola’s, D-Henderson, legislation that would allow licensure for outdoor nature based schools (ONBs) and increase their operations.
SB24-078 would define ONBs as child care centers for licensing purposes, and require the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) to provide training to licensing and ONB program staff. ONBs currently have no way to obtain licensure. Despite currently operating via waivers and exemption statuses, roadblocks remain in place for ONBs, such as their inability to support full-day preschool.
“Colorado is in the midst of an early-childhood education crisis, which is why it’s imperative that we develop a formal licensure process for ONBs and expand childcare options,” Marchman said. “By allowing ONBs to operate full-day programs, we can create job opportunities, make ONBs more accessible to working families, and ensure kids get the quality education they deserve.”
“I’m glad to see Senate Bill 78 move forward, as it would ensure universal safety standards at outdoor nature based schools and break down barriers for working families who want to access this type of education,” said Priola. “With this bill, we can get outdoor nature preschools licensed as child care centers, and increase access to unique early childhood education options for Coloradans.”
ONBs are growing in popularity due to their unique format and support for students with diverse learning needs. Eighty-two percent of Coloradans work full-time. Full-day licensure for ONBS would break down barriers for working families and add an estimated 340 additional spots for children. Additionally, full-day operations would support these small businesses by creating jobs in local communities.
The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Follow its progress HERE.