HB71 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Terri CollinsRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Education Dept. of, Early Childhood Education, Secretary, qualifications, Sec. 26-24-2 am'd.

Summary

The bill sets specific education and experience requirements for the Governor-appointed Secretary of Early Childhood Education.

What This Bill Does

It adds detailed qualification requirements for anyone seeking the Secretary role, including a master's degree or 36 hours of post-baccalaureate study in early childhood education or childhood development and extensive experience in supervision and management of early childhood programs. It also notes that certification in education administration and supervision is preferred but not required. The bill maintains that the Governor appoints the secretary, with salary set by the Governor, and requires the secretary to take an oath, post a bond, devote full time to duties, and not hold other offices.

Who It Affects

• Prospective and current nominees for the position of Secretary of Early Childhood Education, who must meet the new degree, coursework, and experience requirements.
• The Governor and the Department of Early Childhood Education, as they will appoint, supervise, and determine the salary for the secretary under the new qualifications.

Key Provisions

• Eligibility for secretary: master’s degree or completion of at least 36 hours of post-baccalaureate coursework in early childhood education or childhood development.
• Experience requirement: extensive supervision and management experience in early childhood education (birth to age 8), including school readiness, early care education, school improvement, and education/administration.
• Certification preference: certification in education administration and supervision is preferred but not required.
• Appointment and duties: secretary is appointed by the Governor and serves at the Governor’s pleasure.
• Salary: the secretary’s salary will be fixed by the Governor at an amount comparable to similar state offices.
• Oath and bond: the secretary must take the constitutional oath and post a bond of at least $10,000.
• Full-time status: the secretary must devote full time to duties and may not hold other offices during incumbency.
• Effective date: the act becomes effective immediately after passage and approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education