§ 3542

Scholarships for prospective early childhood providers [Repealed effective July 1, 2026] (a)(1) There is established a need-based scholarship program for individuals pursuing a college degree in early childhood education or early childhood special education. The scholarship program shall provide financial assistance up to the full cost of tuition for an eligible individual. (2) An eligible individual shall:(A) attend a Vermont college or university at least part-time;(B) be pursuing an associates or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or early childhood special education; and (C) commit to working in a regulated, privately operated center-based child care program or family child care home in Vermont for years equal to those in which scholarship monies are sought under this section. (b)(1) The Department for Children and Families shall adopt policies, procedures, and guidelines necessary for implementation of the program described in subsection (a) of this section. (2) The Department may contract for the administration of the program. Administration costs shall not be more than 10 percent of the total appropriation received to implement this section.

s section. (2) The Department may contract for the administration of the program. Administration costs shall not be more than 10 percent of the total appropriation received to implement this section. (c)(1) Scholarships distributed pursuant to this section shall be available on a first-come, first-served basis until any appropriated funds are depleted. (2) An eligible individual who does not work the required number of years in a regulated, privately operated center-based child care program or family child care home in Vermont after completion of the individual’s degree program shall repay scholarship monies received under this section commensurate with the balance of the eligible individual’s time commitment. (d) An individual shall not simultaneously participate in the scholarship program set forth in this section and the student loan repayment assistance program set forth in section 3543 of this title. (Added 2021, No. 45, § 6; repealed on July 1, 2026 by 2021, No. 45, § 8(b) and 2023, No. 76, § 17(b).)