Financial Support

Pennsylvania Department of Welfare (DPW) supports the professional development efforts of early childhood and school-age practitioners in many ways:

Low cost professional development opportunities through the Regional Keys (Search the Professional Development Calendar)

PA Keys to Professional Development Refund Voucher Program

Please Note: All vouchers for classes ending between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 must be returned to our office by July 31, 2009. Vouchers received after this date will be voided.

The professional development refund voucher program provides the opportunity for reimbursement for courses that earn college credits (including Child Development Associate Professional Development Programs) and payment for the CDA Assessment Fee. 

  Click here for the complete voucher program guidelines and deadlines.

  • Applicants for both types of vouchers must be currently employed in OCDEL Keystone STARS program designated STAR 1 or higher

For the College Tuition Reimbursement Voucher

  • Courses must provide college credit
  • Students must receive a grade of "C" or better
  • Courses must be a part of an early childhood degree program (see guidelines for more details)
  • The maximum refund amount allowed is $3,000 per year (July 1 to June 30) and a maximum of $500 per credit hour.

To apply for reimbursement for courses use this application - Deadline to apply is before the last day of class.
[Download the College Tuition Reimbursement Voucher Application]

To apply for CDA Assessment fee payment - Deadline to apply is by the 1st of the month before the Council for Professional Recognition's Deadline.
[Download the CDA Assessment Fee Voucher Application]

If you are receiving funds from TEACH for any courses, you are not eligible for the voucher program. (some exclusions may apply)

T.E.A.C.H. Scholarships

T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) Early Childhood® PENNSYLVANIA Scholarship Program works with providers, colleges and child care staff to offer scholarship programs and support systems that improve the education and compensation of child care workers.

T.E.A.C.H. obtains its funding through grants from businesses, foundations and government. By helping to increase professionalism, raise wages and reduce turnover of child care staff, this public-private partnership brings higher quality care to Pennsylvania’s children. T.E.A.C.H. is administered by the Pennsylvania Child Care Association.

For more information call 877-51-TEACH (83224).