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Home child-care providers urge changes to S.119, warn degree mandate could reduce workforce
Summary
Home-based early childhood providers told the Senate Committee on Government Operations they support professional recognition but warned that S.119would force experienced providers out unless the bill adds grandfathering, competency pathways or better supports.
Heather Armelle, who runs a four‑star registered home child‑care in Moncton, Vermont, told the Senate Committee on Government Operations on April 4 that she and many home providers oppose making early childhood education a licensed profession tied to an associate degree because it could force experienced providers to close.
The testimony matters because Vermont and other states face a shortage of early childhood educators, and S.119 would change who must hold a portable professional credential. Committee members and advocates said they want to preserve the workforce while improving standards; providers urged alternatives such as competency‑based pathways, expanded continuing education and grandfathering for established home providers.
"Many of us are concerned that we will lose many dedicated providers who are not interested or able to go back to school to obtain an associate's degree," Armelle said. She described operating a home program for 15 years, working more than 50 hours a week and taking 40 to 60…
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