HB 1511 -- Early Childhood Education Sponsor: Lager This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop, by June 30, 2007, standards for early childhood education which will be applicable to public preschool programs that receive federal Title I funds or Missouri preschool project funds. The standards must include, among other items, an assessment of needs; a focus on cognitive, language, physical, and social/emotional development; and highly qualified, properly certified teachers. In developing the standards, the department must involve representatives of many groups, including the business community, existing early childhood programs, school districts, and private and faith-based providers.Copyright (c) Missouri House of Representatives