The Department of Early Learning is excited to announce the
redesign of the scholarship program for early learning professionals! This will
allow us to streamline services and support early learning professionals in their career development.
Beginning July 1, 2016:
- Early Achievers Grants: Students pursuing an Early Childhood Education certificate and/or Associate Degree offered through a Washington State community and technical college will apply to for an Early Achievers Grant through their local community and technical college. This scholarship program is managed by the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges.
- Washington Scholarships for Child Care Professionals: Students pursuing their Child Development Associate Credential (CDA), GED or attending a public University working towards a Bachelor’s degree will apply to Child Care Aware of Washington for a Washington Scholarship for Early Learning Professionals. This program is managed by Child Care Aware of Washington. Current Washington Scholarship recipients will continue to be funded by Washington Scholarships while actively enrolled and meeting eligibility criteria.
"We support a seamless transition for current scholarship recipients with continuous financial assistance, advising and uninterrupted course work," said DEL Assistant Director Nicole Rose.DEL and state partners will develop a transition plan and will share additional information in the coming months regarding scholarship applications, eligibility and guiding resources for scholarship recipients (such as an FAQ document).
For more information about scholarships, educational
programs and career options in early learning, please visit the newly-developed
Early Childhood Education Career Planning Portal at http://ececareers.del.wa.gov. If you have immediate questions, you may
contact MERIT Support at MERIT@del.wa.gov.
