Higher Education Consortium Expansion - RFA

The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care is seeking applicants to establish an Early Learning Higher Education Consortium in different parts of the state. The successful applicant will collaborate with institutions of higher education, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies, and community-based organizations to support Early Learning Workforce members in obtaining portable, stackable, and articulated higher education credentials, certificates, and degrees. The consortium will focus on bringing partners together to expand and scale up support for the Early Learning Workforce. Key aspects of the project include: • Developing higher education pathways for Early Learning Workforce members • Expanding efforts to recruit students to pursue credits, certificates, and degrees in early childhood education • Supporting Early Learning Workforce members in obtaining debt-free college credentials • Prioritizing inclusion of content and resources on antibias practices, inclusion, and trauma-responsive care • Dedication of FTE to participating in DELC projects supporting statewide articulation and system improvements The initial term of each Grant Agreement is anticipated to be one year, with the option to continue at DELC's discretion.