Abundant scholarship, apprenticeship and job opportunities available as Colorado’s 2023 Universal Preschool Introductory Approach

In response to the national early childhood education (ECE) teacher crisis, state and federal funds can be used to grow accredited preschool and education. Childcare workforce. WCCC is one of three colleges currently offering apprenticeships in Colorado.mentorships and scholarships enable students to obtain qualifications at low or no cost, as well as workplace placements that allow students to earn while they learn..

There are also scholarships available for current ECE professionals to level up their qualifications.

“Now is the perfect time to earn or continue with a college degree in early childhood education,” says Vail Shoultz-McCole, technical instructor in early childhood education. “Education is a high-demand field with a diverse career grid, and there are many scholarships available to support different levels of interest. I encourage anyone who loves socializing to start their education today.”

In 2021, House Bill 1295, with the support of Gov. Jared Polis, established the Colorado Early Childhood Education Department (CDEC) to bring greater recognition to early care and education. CDEC is developing a strategic plan to address Colorado’s childcare shortages and their impact on the economic stability of communities across the state.

“This agency efficiently implements Colorado voter-approved universal free preschool programs that give children a strong start and save families money. We deserve every opportunity to thrive, and this investment will continue to ensure our state is on par…a better, more affordable place to live, work, and have a family.”

Shoultz-McCole is serving on the 15-member Regulatory Advisory Committee created to guide the Executive Director of CDEC on how to serve the best interests of early childhood professionals, children and families in Colorado. He said he was honored to be appointed.

1 CDEC’s mission is to have a universal preschool in 2023. ChildCare facilities and teachers Of which, there are already statewide shortages. WCCC not only offers a variety of programs and financial assistance to assist those interested in this career, but also offers credits to certify previous work experience.

CDEC Funding for Apprenticeships and Scholarships

CDEC has awarded WCCC with $438,000 in apprenticeship grants for 2022-2023 academic schools, and local grants to provide students with paid apprenticeships, mentor and teacher support, and scholarships to complete college courses. created a partnership with a provider of Students can apprentice with public and private early childhood care and education workforce partners.

High school students in dual-application programs (Technical Scholars or P-Tech) are also eligible to participate in this program. Pre- and after-school field work offers opportunities for part-time apprenticeships, and students can also obtain national qualifications from the Professional Accreditation Council.

Colorado Department of Education also awarded WCCC averagevarious scholarships. For EDEC 101 and EDEC 103 scholarships alone, In-state students can save $1,182. Additional funding will support students seeking technical certificates, entry-level teachers, teachers, and/or Ddegree.

TEACH Scholarships for Current ECE Employees and Professionals

Expanding the number of childcare facilities in Colorado to serve young children means an increased demand for leadership positions. The Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance (ECCLA) works with the Child Care Services Association, a national Teacher Education and Compensation Helps Early Childhood® (TEACH) initiative, to work with early childhood education facilities or other need-serving organizations in Colorado We offer scholarships to our employees. of young children. These scholarships support those who wish to further their education in early care education.

How many scholarship models are currently in place for directors, teachers, home care providers, and employees of other ECE facilities who wish to pursue early childhood qualifications, director qualifications, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, or master’s degrees in ECE? there is There is also an “expert model” available for coaches, agents, home visitors, evaluators, consultants, children-focused nonprofits, and more. Most models require him to be employed 20-30 hours a week, with the exception of college students and substitutes who do not work full-time programs. For more information, see: ecclacolorado.org/teachscholarships.

“Teachers play an important role in our economy and communities. They provide quality care and education while families work in their communities,” said Shoultz-McCole. “Teachers influence the future by supporting children’s love of learning, social interaction, and healthy physical development, helping them build successful adult lives as active members of the community. It provides a foundation for

Participation in an apprenticeship program can lead to long-term employment opportunities upon completion of the apprenticeship. College students have access to employment assistance through WCCC.

Visit the WCCC Early Childhood Education Program for details on available funding and to apply.