More than 1,000 T.E.A.C.H. scholarships are available for eligible professionals in DHS-certified Keystone STARS early childhood education programs. Scholarships are available for Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials, CDA assessment fees, Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees and PA Teacher Certification in early childhood education.
The T.E.A.C.H. scholarship program requires participants to continue employment at their sponsoring child care program for a specified period of time with a guaranteed pay increase after they complete one year of education. The T.E.A.C.H. program provides opportunities for child care professionals to receive a degree in their field so they can earn better wages—which ultimately increases the quality of child care.
The departments of Human Services and Education, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Child Care Association (PACCA), administers the program. T.E.A.C.H. works with providers, colleges, and child care staff to offer scholarship programs and support systems that improve the education and compensation of child care workers.
Eligible applicants must:
- work a minimum of 25-30 hours per week directly with children in a DHS-certified child care program participating in Keystone STARS;
- make $19 or less an hour ($25 or less per hour for directors); and
- be interested in pursuing coursework at a participating college (at least 9 credits per year) toward a degree or credential in early childhood education.
Other Considerations:
- Scholarship awards are dependent upon availability of funds and priorities of funders;
- Other eligibility criteria may apply and are subject to change without notice.
Retroactive scholarships are available for students already enrolled for the Fall 2016 semester. Scholarships are also available for the upcoming Spring and Summer 2017 semesters.
Questions? Contact a T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Counselor at (717) 657-9000.
For more information and to apply, visit www.pacca.org.