(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana could stop requiring some childcare workers to have a high school diploma under a proposed change to the state's childcare licensing rules.
If approved as written, job applicants would no longer need a high school diploma to work as caregivers at licensed childcare centers.
Lead caregivers would still need a high school diploma or equivalent credential.
Childcare directors would need either an associate's degree in early childhood or elementary education, or a Child Development Associate credential with two years of experience in an early childhood program.
Several early childhood educators and childcare advocates urged state regulators Monday not to approve the rule as proposed. They argued the change would lower standards in the profession and could affect classroom safety and child development.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration says the proposed rule could help make childcare more affordable by reducing administrative burdens on childcare businesses.
State officials have until October to revise the proposed rule. A second public comment period is expected, but a date has not been announced.
If the final rule is approved by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, the changes would take effect next January.