Staff qualifications for Indian Head Start programs

Section 648A(a)(2) of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9843a(a)(2)) is amended— (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (C) and (D) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively; (2) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following: (C) Degree requirements applicable to Indian Head Start programs (i) Minimum requirements In order to help fulfill the objectives of Head Start programs for Indian (including Alaska Native) children and families, notwithstanding subparagraph (A) or (B), or any other provision of this subchapter, the Secretary shall ensure that all Indian Head Start teachers and teaching assistants in center-based programs either— (I) possess at the time of hire— (aa) at least a child development associate credential; (bb) an early childhood education certificate from an institution of higher education (as defined by section 101 or 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001, 1002)), including a Tribal college or university; or (cc) an early childhood education certificate issued by a State government entity, as long as the requirements for attaining that certificate meet or exceed the requirements to obtain a child development associate credential; or (II) provide, at the time of hire, proof of enrollment in an education program that will, upon completion, result in the receipt of— (aa) at least a child development associate credential; (bb) an early childhood education certificate from an institution of higher education (as defined by section 101 or 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001, 1002)), including a Tribal college or university; or (cc) an early childhood education certificate issued by a State government entity, as long as the requirements for attaining that certificate meet or exceed the requirements to obtain a child development associate credential. (ii) Requirements for degree completion The Secretary shall ensure that Indian Head Start teachers and teaching assistants who meet the requirements of clause (i)(II) complete the education program and earn such credential or certificate not later than 2 years after the date of hire by the Indian Head Start program.; and (3) in clause (i) of subparagraph (D), as so redesignated— (A) in subclause (I), in the matter preceding item (aa), by inserting except with respect to Indian Head Start programs after Head Start agencies; and (B) in subclause (III), by striking subparagraph (A) or (B) and inserting subparagraph (A), (B), or (C).