Yang Rohr Encourages Those Eligible to Apply for Early-Childhood Education Scholarships

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, D-Naperville, wants those working in or applying for careers in the childcare industry to apply for available aid money for the upcoming 2022-23 school year from the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Scholarship.

“Early-childhood workers were hit hard from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Yang Rohr said. “The scholarship money will go a long way in helping current workers attain an additional degree or credential and enrolled students cover the remaining cost of their education.”

For eligible applicants, the ECACE Scholarship, in addition to other scholarships or grants the student may receive, will cover the full cost of educational expenses such as textbooks, housing, and tuition. Those employed in both licensed and license-exempt facilities who care for newborns through 5 years of age are eligible for aid.

Yang Rohr has been a committed fighter for initiatives that help Illinois families. Through her support of a record $54.4 million investment in childhood education programs in the most recent budget, Illinois children and families know they have an advocate on their side. She also backed House Bill 4338 which required insurance companies to cover prenatal vitamins for expectant mothers, helping to ensure that low-income families can raise healthy and happy children.

“The financial cost of higher education, especially for those in early-childhood education, often discourages people from entering the field and continuing their career goals,” Yang Rohr said. “Illinois needs more professionals to help meet the demand for our quality childcare services, and I invite all to apply for this opportunity.”

While the program’s July 15, 2022 priority deadline has passed, funding remains available and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission anticipates that it will continue awarding additional scholarships as eligible applications are submitted.

For more information on the program and eligibility, visit https://www.isac.org/ECACEscholarship.