L-R: Preschool Promise Team Members Maria Rao, Dr. Tennille Love, Robyn Lightcap and Erika Ward with Key Bank Foundation representatives Jeff Bardonaro and Stacy Thompson
Today, KeyBank and the KeyBank Foundation announced an investment of $390,000 in Preschool Promise Inc to boost the Promise Scholars program.
The Promise Scholars program specifically helps early childhood educators employed at a Preschool Promise partner site earn degrees and credentials in early childhood education and graduate debt-free. Designed to address the early educator workforce crisis and strengthen the quality of instruction in early learning classrooms, the program was created in 2022 in direct response to the pleas from local partners who were concerned about childcare and preschool programs having to close classrooms because they couldn’t find qualified teachers.
Using grant funds for the next four years, Preschool Promise will cover up to $5,000 in tuition each semester to help educators earn a credential or degree. The program also assists with covering the cost of tuition and books as needed for each teacher and can provide tutoring and accountability to help them stay enrolled and pursue degree completion.
“We are thrilled to partner with the KeyBank Foundation to expand educational opportunities through our Promise Scholars program,” said Robyn Lightcap, Executive Director of Preschool Promise. “This funding will enable us to support Early Childhood Educators in returning to school to earn their degrees, while also creating pathways for young learners interested in the field through internships and hands-on experience. Investing in highly qualified teachers is essential, as we know that learning begins at birth, and skilled educators play a vital role in every child’s growth and lifelong success.”