How to start a preschool in Louisiana

Starting an early learning centre in Louisiana presents a rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of young children and their families. The licensing process is managed by the Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division, which sets forth the statewide minimum standards for the health, safety, and well-being of children in early learning centres. Aspiring providers will engage with Bulletin 137, which outlines the comprehensive regulations for operating a childcare facility in the state. This guide will walk you through the key considerations, from understanding the different types of licenses available to navigating the financial aspects and ongoing operational requirements. With a strong regulatory framework focused on quality and safety, Louisiana aims to ensure that all children have access to high-quality early childhood education. By carefully adhering to these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, you can establish a successful and compliant early learning centre that contributes significantly to the community.

Regulations

Health safety: Health and safety regulations are comprehensive, covering general safety requirements for the physical environment, safe sleep practices for infants, and procedures for medication administration. Centers must have an Incident/Injury/Accident/Illness/Behavior Report form for documenting events, and critical/reportable incidents require specific notification. Immunization records for children are generally a requirement in childcare settings (general). Exclusion policies for ill children are typically in place to prevent the spread of illness (general). Regular drills for emergencies, such as fire and tornado drills, are mandatory to ensure preparedness. Child care health consultants, approved by DHH, provide training and technical assistance on health and safety topics.

Licensing overview: In Louisiana, any facility providing care for 7 or more children on a regular basis for at least 12.5 hours a week must be licensed as a Child Day Care Center. The Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division, is responsible for administering the licensing program, ensuring compliance with Bulletin 137: Louisiana Early Learning Center Licensing Regulations. The initial licensure process involves submitting an application and undergoing an inspection to ensure the facility meets health, safety, and operational standards. Licenses are renewed annually, and centers are subject to ongoing inspections to maintain compliance. Operating without a license can lead to penalties.

Licensing authority: Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division

Staff qualifications: Directors of early learning centres in Louisiana must meet a 90 clock-hour training requirement. Staff, including early learning staff and providers, working in Type I, Type II, and Type III child care centres or family child daycare homes, must complete continuing education as accepted by the Louisiana Department of Education. All trainers are approved Level III Trainers by Louisiana Pathways. All personnel, including staff, volunteers, and independent contractors, are subject to criminal background checks (CBCs) and must submit State Central Registry Disclosure Forms. Staff must also obtain CPR and First Aid certifications, and specific medication management training is required for those administering medication.

Facility requirements: The physical environment of an early learning centre must adhere to general safety requirements outlined in Bulletin 137. This includes specific standards for furnishings and equipment, ensuring they are safe for children. Adequate lighting and ventilation are mandated for all areas. For family child daycare homes caring for up to six children, specific requirements apply, such as ensuring matches and lighters are out of reach, proper installation of smoke detectors, and protective receptacle covers in areas accessed by children under five. Means of escape from sleeping/living/dining areas are required, as well as maintaining proper refrigerator temperatures and overall cleanliness and sanitation. A properly charged portable fire extinguisher is also required.

Curriculum requirements: While Louisiana does not explicitly mandate a single curriculum framework for all early learning centres, it focuses on statewide minimum standards for the health, safety, and well-being of children. The state's Early Learning Center Licensing Regulations (Bulletin 137) provide guidelines for operations, staffing, and environment, which implicitly support developmental learning. Providers are encouraged to align their pedagogical approaches with best practices in early childhood education. International Preschool Curriculum (IPC) could be integrated by demonstrating how its learning goals and assessment methods meet or exceed the state's general care and developmental objectives, focusing on child-centred learning and comprehensive development.

Startup costs

Startup costs vary significantly based on the size and type of facility. A small home-based daycare will incur lower expenses, primarily for modifications, initial supplies, and licensing fees. A larger, purpose-built centre for 60-100 children involves substantial investment in property acquisition or lease, construction or renovation, extensive equipment, and higher initial staffing costs. Operating costs are influenced by rent/mortgage, utilities, staff salaries, food, educational supplies, and insurance. Location within Louisiana also plays a role, with urban areas generally having higher property and salary costs.

Timeline

1. Initial Planning and Research (1-3 months): Engage in thorough research of the Louisiana Department of Education's Bulletin 137: Louisiana Early Learning Center Licensing Regulations. Identify the specific type of license required (Child Day Care Center or Family Child Daycare Home) and understand the associated requirements. This phase involves business planning, market analysis, and securing a preliminary location.

2. Licensing Application and Facility Preparation (3-6 months): Complete and submit the initial licensure application to the Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division. Utilize the Initial Licensure Inspection Checklist to ensure the facility meets all health, safety, and environmental standards. This includes any necessary renovations, acquiring appropriate furnishings and equipment, and setting up administrative systems for child and staff records.

3. Staffing and Training (2-4 months): Recruit and hire qualified staff, ensuring all personnel undergo required criminal background checks and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR and First Aid. Facilitate the mandatory 90 clock-hour director training and ongoing professional development recognized by Louisiana Pathways. All staff will need to complete the required orientation documentation.

4. Pre-Opening Inspections and Final Approvals (1-2 months): Schedule and pass all required inspections by the Louisiana Department of Education and other relevant authorities, including fire and sanitation inspections. For family child daycare homes, an inspection by the Office of the State Fire Marshal is required after registering with the Department of Education’s Child Care Assistance Program. Address any identified deficiencies promptly to secure final licensing approval.

5. Grand Opening and Initial Operations (Ongoing): Once licensed, officially open your early learning centre. Focus on establishing daily routines, implementing your curriculum, and maintaining meticulous records, including daily attendance and incident reports. Continuously monitor compliance with all state regulations and prepare for ongoing inspections and annual license renewals to ensure continued operation and high-quality care.

6. Fire Marshal Inspection (Family Child Daycare Homes) (1 month): For family childcare homes, once registered with the Department of Education for the Child Care Assistance Program, the office will send an application for a State Fire Marshal inspection. This inspection ensures the home meets basic fire, safety, and sanitation standards as specified by R.S. 40:1563.2 and 42 U.S.C. 1766. An inspection fee of $30.00 (money order) must be attached to the application.

Next steps: explore the IPC curriculum, read about preschool enrollment, or browse all start-a-preschool guides.

Frequently asked questions

What are the primary licensing authorities for early learning centres in Louisiana?

The primary licensing authority for early learning centres in Louisiana is the Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division. They are responsible for establishing and enforcing statewide minimum standards for the health, safety, and well-being of children, as detailed in Bulletin 137: Louisiana Early Learning Center Licensing Regulations. For family child daycare homes, the Office of the State Fire Marshal also conducts inspections once registered with the Department of Education’s Child Care Assistance Program, overseeing fire, safety, and sanitation standards.

Are there different types of licenses for childcare facilities in Louisiana?

Yes, Louisiana distinguishes between different types of childcare facilities. The main type is the 'Child Day Care Center', which is for any facility providing care to 7 or more children on a regular basis for at least 12.5 hours a week. There are also 'Family Child Daycare Homes' which are allowed to care for no more than six children. Each type has specific requirements and licensing procedures overseen by the Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division, and for family homes, the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

What are the staff-to-child ratios in Louisiana early learning centres?

Louisiana mandates specific staff-to-child ratios to ensure adequate supervision and care. For infants (birth to 1 year), the ratio is 1:5 with a maximum group size of 10. For toddlers (1-2 years), it is 1:6 with a maximum group size of 12. Two-year-olds have a 1:7 ratio and a maximum group of 14; three-year-olds, 1:10 with a maximum group of 20; four-year-olds, 1:13 with a maximum group of 26; and five-year-olds (kindergarten), 1:16 with a maximum group of 32. For school-age children (6 years and up), the ratio is 1:18 with a maximum group of 36.

What training is required for directors and staff in Louisiana?

Directors of early learning centres in Louisiana are required to complete a 90 clock-hour training program. For staff, including early learning staff and providers in various centre types and family child daycare homes, ongoing continuing education is necessary. These training hours are accepted by the Louisiana Department of Education, with trainers approved as Level III Trainers by Louisiana Pathways. Care Courses, for example, offers accepted programs, though it is not a BESE-approved Early Childhood Ancillary Certificate (ECAC) Program.

Are there any financial assistance programs for childcare providers in Louisiana?

Yes, financial assistance can be applied for through the Louisiana Department of Education for programs such as the Food Nutrition Program and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). These programs aim to support childcare providers and make care more accessible for families. Providers should contact the Department of Education directly for specific requirements and application processes. These funds can assist with operational costs and enhance the quality of care provided.

What is Bulletin 137 and why is it important?

Bulletin 137, also known as the Louisiana Early Learning Center Licensing Regulations, sets forth the rules and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of R.S. 17:407.31 et seq. This bulletin establishes statewide minimum standards for the health, safety, and well-being of children in early learning centers. It also regulates conditions through a licensing program administered by the Louisiana Department of Education, Licensing Division. Compliance with Bulletin 137 is mandatory for all licensed childcare facilities in Louisiana.