Early Childhood Workforce Advancement Act of 2026

This bill authorizes the Secretary of Education, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to award competitive grants to eligible partnerships. These grants are specifically designed to establish, expand, or support career and technical education programs of study in early childhood education . The initiative aims to strengthen the early childhood education workforce by providing funding for training and development programs. Eligible partnerships, which can include educational institutions, childcare providers, and community stakeholders, must submit applications detailing how the funds will be used to benefit students, coordinate with existing CTE activities, and meet regional employer needs. Priority for grant awards will be given to applicants serving rural or urban areas with documented childcare provider shortages , those offering infant/toddler care or inclusive services, and partnerships involving institutions of higher education. Funds can be used for educational materials, recruiting and training educators, improving CTE outcomes through work-based learning and financial assistance, and professional development for staff. Grants can last up to five years, with a possible two-year extension, and require independent evaluation and annual reporting on program effectiveness.