Rep. Barbara Hernandez Announces Scholarships Available for Early Childhood Education and Childcare Workers for the 2022-23 Academic Year

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is announcing that scholarships from the 2022-23 school year are still available for those interested in getting degrees or credentials in early childhood education or childcare fields.

“As many single and working parents can confirm, childcare professionals are a huge help in giving children the care, attention and early schooling they need,” Hernandez said. “Well-trained childcare workers and educators contribute so much to their communities and our need for them is high right now. These are secure, good-paying positions that allow people to take a significant role in raising the next generation of Illinoisans. I encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is encouraging former childcare workers or those interested in the field to apply for the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) scholarship. This scholarship can cover students’ total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, books, and room and board.

More detailed information on the scholarship is available at the ISAC website: www.isac.org/ECACEscholarship.

“The role early childhood education plays in our kids’ lives can’t be overstated, and my work in our community and in Springfield reflects that,” Hernandez said. “Our most recent budget—that I was proud to vote for—set aside major funding for early childhood education initiatives and Illinois’ Child Care Assistance Program. I plan to continue that work in the coming legislative session.”