Early Childhood Workforce Advancement Act of 2026

The Early Childhood Workforce Advancement Act of 2026 establishes a competitive grant program to bolster the early childhood education workforce. The Secretary of Education, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, will award these grants to eligible partnerships to create, expand, or support career and technical education (CTE) programs in early childhood education. Applicants must detail how funds will be used, the roles of partners, benefits to students including special populations, and how programs align with employer needs and existing federal education acts. Priority for grant awards will be given to applicants serving rural and urban areas, those in regions with documented childcare provider shortages, and programs offering services for infants and toddlers, non-traditional hours, or inclusive care for children with disabilities. Funds can be used for educational materials, recruiting and training educators, improving student outcomes through work-based learning and wrap-around supports, and professional development for staff. This includes supporting the attainment of credentials like the Child Development Associate (CDA) and associate or baccalaureate degrees. Grantees are required to conduct independent evaluations and submit annual reports on program performance and effectiveness, with grants lasting up to five years and a possible two-year extension based on demonstrated success.