Changes to Scholarship Programs for Early Care and Education Professionals

New criteria will be used to determine eligibility under two scholarship programs in Pennsylvania, T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Pennsylvania and Rising STARS Tuition Assistance (RSTA). In order to maximize Federal and State funding and streamline scholarship options, the requirements for eligibility under each program are changing for the 2019-20 program year.

Beginning July 1, 2019, OCDEL will prioritize public funding for RSTA to support students pursuing coursework toward the following:

  • In state, credit bearing CDA coursework, voucher and completion support (Infant/toddler, Child Development and Family Childcare)

  • Infant Toddler Credentials or Endorsements, School Age Credential and Director’s credential

  • Application fees associated with obtaining PA’s Association for Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement (IECMH)

Master level degrees are no longer eligible for assistance from the Rising STARS Tuition Assistance program. This will apply to new applicants as well as any current applicants funded in 2018-19. Associate and Bachelor level degree seekers currently receiving funding from Rising STARS will be given fiscal year 2019-20 to transition to another eligible option which may include TEACH or OCDEL PDO partners.

Learn more about changes to T.E.A.C.H. and RSTA at bit.ly/risingstarspa or call 717-213-2071 or e-mail ambrep@pakeys.org for questions. For questions specifically about T.E.A.C.H. contact a Counselor at teachinfo@pacca.org or (717) 657-9000.

NewsCourtney Centner