INCENTIVE$ awards annual stipends to early learning and family child care educators, directors, and owners in participating counties for their higher education achievements and commitment to their early learning programs. INCENTIVE$ works alongside other local quality initiatives to help increase the education, compensation, and stability of our state's early childhood...
How much money will I receive with INCENTIVE$?
The INCENTIVE$ Scale award levels range from $450 to $5,000 for full-time employees. These awards are based upon the participant's education level and reflect the schedule worked during a six-month commitment period (i.e., staff working part-time in the classroom receive prorated awards). Click here to view the INCENTIVE$ Scale.
How can I apply for INCENTIVE$?
Eligible early learning educators must create and use a Children's Forum personal portal account to access the INCENTIVE$ online application. Applications must include: Proof of employment Formal education documents (ex. unofficial transcripts) Paystub or proof of your hourly wage Family child care educators must complete a Monthly Income Worksheet as...
How do I create my Children’s Forum personal portal account?
Applicants must create portal account using their personal email address. Please follow steps below: Visit https://login.thechildrensforum.com/ and click on the Create Account button Enter details as requested on each page (Name, DOB, Demographics, Address, etc.) Check your personal email account for a message from registryportal@thechildrensforum.com NOTE: Please allow up to...
When will I receive my INCENTIVE$ stipend*?
INCENTIVE$ stipends are typically received 45 – 60 days after the participant's employment is confirmed with their program director. Stipend payments are loaded on Akimbo Prepaid Mastercards that participants can access. If a participant did not work for an extended period during their required 6-month commitment period, they must make...
How can I increase my stipend award (move to a higher level)?
Participants can increase their level on the INCENTIVE$ Scale with formal education. The T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Scholarship Program can help participants attain additional education with little out-of-pocket costs. T.E.A.C.H. offers a variety of scholarship opportunities that include early learning credentials, college credit and certificates, and degrees in early childhood education.