A Grundy County lawmaker is encouraging early childhood education workers who want to pursue additional credentials or earn a degree in early childhood education to apply for a scholarship opportunity.

State Senator Patrick Joyce said Illinois is currently experiencing a shortage of early childhood educators in school districts all around the state. While the initial deadline for the 2022-23 scholarship has passed, the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Scholarship Program and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission is encouraging individuals to apply.

After other financial aid is received, the ECACE can cover up to the total cost of an awardee’s attendance at select schools – including tuition, fees, room and board, books and supplies. Recipients of the scholarship are expected to continue or return to teaching early childhood care and education in Illinois after their study is completed.

For more information about the program, eligibility details and an online application, visit https://www.isac.org/ECACEscholarship.