The Iowa Department of Education has allocated a $600,000 grant to enhance child care programs across nine school districts. This initiative aims to provide better opportunities for students and address the growing need for child care workers in the state.
The Clear Creek Amana School District received $75,000 from the grant. They plan to collaborate with local daycare centers, giving students a chance for hands-on experience. This funding will also cover specialized training and certification for students, equipping them with valuable skills.
Megan Holsover from the district emphasized the importance of practical learning. “We want students to explore different careers, not just stay in the classroom all day,” she said. A recent survey showed that over 140 students are eager to participate in this program. Holsover highlighted that some lessons are best learned outside traditional classroom settings.
The grant will also help expand child care programs by providing essential learning tools and facilitating state-level testing. At the end of the program, students can earn the Child Development Associate Certification, which is recognized nationally.
The Iowa City Community School District is another recipient of the grant. They are working on a similar approach, partnering with local daycare centers. Dominic Audia mentioned that the funding will help integrate state guidelines into their existing curriculum. “It’s great because we have been focusing on internships and apprenticeships over the past couple of years,” he added.
Addressing the shortage of child care workers is a significant goal for Governor Kim Reynolds, making this initiative even more crucial for Iowa’s future.
Here’s the complete list of school districts receiving the grant:
- Central Lyon Community School District
- Charles City Community School District
- Clear Creek Amana Community School District
- Des Moines Public Schools
- Harlan Community School District
- Iowa City Community School District
- LeMars Community School District
- Marshalltown Community School District
- Woodbine Community School District
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