Washington Scholarships for Child Care Professionals

Washington Scholarships for Child Care Professionals is a program that helps child care providers overcome two major barriers to further education: financial resources and limited time. The program provides funds for release time, travel stipends, tuitions, fees, books, and a bonus upon completion.

In partnership with the Washington State Child Care Resource & Referral Network, the Department of Early Learning funds this program that in fiscal year 2006-2007 supported 505 scholars who took 4,755 credits towards their degrees, with a 3.55 grade point average.

Washington Scholarships elevates the status of the child care and early learning workforce and translates into greater job satisfaction. The program invests in the work force by:

  • increasing the education levels
  • heightening the earning power
  • improving retention rates of students

The more than 6,000 children who receive child care from our scholars are the true beneficiaries of this program. These children benefit from having consistent teachers and family child care providers who are committed to the field and who enhance their understanding of child growth and development.

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