Speaking of Professional Development

Good news for you and your teaching staff!

Last month, both Houses of Congress passed the bipartisan Higher Education Act bill, it includes key provisions for early childhood educators. The president signed H.R. 4137 into law on Aug.14, 2008.

We are especially excited about three parts of the law:
* Expanded student loan forgiveness programs for teachers earning a bachelor's degree who will work in licensed or regulated child care, Head Start, Early Head Start, and state pre-K programs;
* Inclusion of early childhood education programs in partnerships to improve teacher preparation, recruitment and retention. This means that grant funds for can be used to compensate of early childhood educators who attain an associate's or baccalaureate degree;
* Creation state grants to create early childhood education professional development and career systems that will address teacher's competencies and credentials, better compensation to attract and keep teachers, quality assurances for training and professional development, and articulation agreements.

This is a far reaching law impacting many fields that help us support children and families. For example, Hull House NC's blog describes the potential impact on social workers.

How are you supporting and funding your teacher’s professional development?