Department of Early Learning and Care to implement policies and practices related to early childhood professional development systems

(1) The Department of Early Learning and Care, in coordination with the Early Learning Council and in collaboration with the Educator Advancement Council created by ORS 342.940, shall establish and implement policies and practices to achieve vigorous and comprehensive early childhood professional development systems in this state that incorporate improved recruitment, preparation, induction, career advancement opportunities and support for early learning providers and professionals, including professionals who provide home visiting services. (2) To achieve the objectives described in subsection (1) of this section, the department shall develop or expand: (a) Strategies and partnerships that connect early learning providers and professionals with access to education pathways, including college credentials, degrees and certificates; (b) Coaching and mentorship programs that make available cohorts, mentors and quality improvement specialists to advise, assist, educate and provide information to early learning providers and professionals; (c) Professional development tracking systems for the workforce for early learning to ensure coverage of the necessary skills and knowledge required of early learning providers and professionals, including professionals who provide home visiting services; and (d) Collaborations that support exempt family child care providers, as defined in ORS 329A.430, through the advancement of research in child development, peer learning and mentoring. (3) The department shall collaborate with any state agencies or other partners to achieve the objectives described in subsection (1) of this section and to carry out the provisions of subsection (2) of this section.