Early childhood educators throughout Los Angeles County who wish to improve their practice and further their education can earn a stipend of $1,000 or more through a professional development program called ASPIRE, which is administered by LAUP.

Funded jointly by First 5 California, First 5 LA and LAUP, participants in ASPIRE must complete free online training (in English or Spanish), receive academic and career advisement and complete 3-6 semester units of college coursework in their field.

 

"Working with small children is a joy-filled, yet challenging job," said Celia C. Ayala, LAUP's chief executive officer. "That's why you need all the skills you can get to be your best. Unfortunately, for many early childhood educators, it can be a challenge to pay the costs of further training and education. That's where ASPIRE comes in. Not only will participants receive free training and career advisement, but they will also get a substantial financial boost upon completion!"

ASPIRE is open to people currently working in the Early Care and Education (ECE) field, who are striving to improve their skills. In order to participate in the program, candidates must:

• Work at least 15 hours per week in a licensed child care facility or family child care home.
• Work with children age 0-5, or directly supervise those who do.
• Be working towards an ECE degree or permit.
• Earn less than $60,000 in ECE income.
• Be ineligible for the Los Angeles County "Investing in Early Educators Stipend Program.

ASPIRE participants will have their own career and academic advisor, who will meet with them twice during the program year. The advisor will guide participants in navigating the educational system, choosing coursework and implementing strategies to improve teacher-child interactions. Additionally, participants will have access to a helpline where they can receive assistance throughout the year.

To participate in ASPIRE and become eligible for stipends of at least $1,000, applications must be postmarked and submitted by certified mail by Oct. 22. Please visit www.laup.net/aspire for an application and more information. For questions, call 213-416-1943 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .