The REWARD Wisconsin Stipend Program provides vital supplemental financial support to early childhood educators who continue to work in an under-compensated and under-resourced field. The program annually facilitates the distribution of thousands of stipends to early childhood educators throughout Wisconsin with the goal of increasing compensation, improving the retention of early childhood educators, and encouraging continued education in the field.

Program Eligibilities

Education

  • Any level of the Wisconsin Registry (1-17)

Primary Requirements

  • Longevity: Worked at least 1 year in the early childhood field – either at your current employer or at other regulated child care programs (must be reflected on your Registry Personal Profile)
  • Wages: Earn less than $25/hour

Additional Requirements

  • Program regulation: Employed by a group child care program that is licensed and/or participating in YoungStar; OR, in a licensed or certified family child care program
  • Hours worked: At least 20 hours/week
  • In-classroom/program time: Work at least 5% of your time in an early childhood classroom, either directly with children or in supervision and support of staff
  • Program operation: Work at a program that operates year-round or the full school-year
  • Residency/work location: Live and/or work in the state of Wisconsin

Ready to apply for the REWARD Wisconsin Stipend Program?

Use our online form - it is an efficient way to submit your REWARD application.

Apply Now

Applying for REWARD?

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Make sure you submit all necessary documentation with your application.
  • Applications are processed in the order received and can take up to three months to process.
  • We’ll contact you if we have questions about your application.
  • Read ALL communications you receive from us as soon as you receive them.
  • You can apply for another stipend 12 months after receiving one.
  • You’ll receive a reminder email and text message when it’s your time to reapply.  Make sure we have your correct email and phone number!
  • Stipends may come as soon as every 12 months, but timing is NOT guaranteed.

Do you have questions?

We have the answers to your most commonly asked REWARD questions. Read our frequently asked questions! 

Email: reward@wisconsinearlychildhood.org
p: 608-240-9880 | f: 877-895-5477

Chat: Talk with REWARD staff during regular business hours. Use the chat window in the lower right of your browser!

Counties Impacted

of 72

This program is funded by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.