The Early Childhood Care and Education Advisory Council meeting held by the Louisiana Department of Education on July 18, 2025, focused on clarifying licensing regulations for childcare facilities. A significant discussion centered on the definition and implications of licensed versus unlicensed spaces within educational institutions.

Council members emphasized that a license is issued for a specific location, meaning all care provided at that site must adhere to the terms of the license. This includes full-time care, before and after school programs, and summer or holiday camps. It was noted that a licensed space cannot be designated as unlicensed for certain periods of the year, even if it is used exclusively for specific age groups, such as children aged five and up.

The conversation also highlighted the complexities of managing licensed and unlicensed spaces within schools. For instance, while certain classrooms may remain unlicensed year-round, other areas, such as those used for Head Start programs, are licensed. The council discussed the need for clear separations between these spaces to ensure compliance with licensing requirements.

Additionally, the council explored scenarios where unlicensed spaces might be applicable in childcare centers, particularly for programs catering to school-age children during breaks. However, the consensus was that once a space is licensed, all care provided at that location must fall under that license, regardless of the age group being served.

The meeting underscored the importance of understanding licensing regulations to ensure the safety and quality of early childhood education in Louisiana. Further discussions are expected to refine these guidelines and address any remaining questions from council members.