In 2021, multiple Rhode Island organizations came together to announce a new Registered Apprenticeship Apprenticeships: An arrangement between a developing educator and an employer (e.g., a child care program) that allows the educator to participate in on-the-job professional learning and related coursework. Apprenticeship programs are often sponsored by government agencies and/or non-profit organizations. Program (RAP) for Family Child Care (FCC) providers. This program represents a partnership between four parties: the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), which sets the quality standards of care; Service Employees International Union (SEIU) 1199 NE, which represents the bargaining unit of the FCC Providers; the SEIU Education and Support Fund, which is sponsoring the registered apprenticeship and will play an integral role as an education provider; and Family Child Care Providers, an essential representative in the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee that oversees the registered apprenticeship program, ensuring the program meets the needs of providers seeking to advance their education, professional development and earnings opportunities. FCC providers are sole proprietors that through SEIU collectively bargain with DHS on reimbursement rates. The program aims to address the significant barriers FCC providers face to earn a Childhood Development Associate certification (CDA), which helps increase providers’ earnings and QRIS ratings. RAP is an 18-month program that provides on-the-job training for new apprentices while earning a CDA and receiving incremental wage increases. The program is funded by the US Department of Labor/Employment and Training Association American Apprenticeship Initiative.
Sources:
Building Futures Rhode Island. (2021). New, Innovative Early Childhood Educator Registered Apprenticeship for Family Child Care Providers.
Connections to Key Early Learning Study at Harvard (ELS@H) Findings:
The early education workforce is the foundation upon which all daily work and any expansion and quality improvement efforts rest. Research suggests that states and cities should invest in the workforce across all early education setting types, focusing on enhancing educators’ professional learning, compensation, and workplace conditions.
Findings from the Early Learning Study at Harvard (ELS@H) show:
- Early educators play a critical role in supporting the well-being of young children and families across setting types.
- Yet their pay, benefits, and other professional supports are often inadequate in light of the job demands and their cost of living.