Workforce Support and Resources
Wisconsin Early Childhood Association (WECA) exists to support and enhance the early childhood workforce so that early childhood educators, children, families, and communities have the opportunity to thrive. WECA has continued to evolve and innovate to meet the growing needs of early care and education providers in Wisconsin by administering important programs, advancing advocacy efforts, and providing professional development opportunities.
WHAT WE OFFER
Educational and Professional Development
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Wisconsin Program scholarships help make higher education more affordable – and sometimes nearly FREE! We also offer dozens of professional development credit hours each year through our annual conference, free shared services network training sessions, and other training opportunities.
Business Practices and Capacity Building
WECA’s shared services network is a national leader in helping child care programs develop strong business practices and increase efficiency so child care owners and administrators can focus more on what matters most – nurturing young children. Programs enrolled in Wisconsin Early Education Shared Services Network (WEESSN) have access to thousands of business resources, including customizable templates and policies, tax guides, cost savings opportunities, coaching, and much more. WECA also helps build the capacity and sustainability of child care programs across the state through a variety of long- and short-term projects, including pre-licensing services in the northern and southeastern regions and coaching, professional development, and other regional resources.
WECA Food Systems
Wisconsin Early Childhood Association is committed to advancing food systems support to enhance the health, nutrition, and food-related activities of young children and families through tools for early care and education programs. The initiatives are designed to connect young children in early care and education settings with fresh, locally sourced foods and aim to foster healthy eating habits, support local agriculture, and enhance educational opportunities for children, families, and caregivers.
Membership and Advocacy
As NAEYC’s state affiliate, WECA provides an important connection to the largest professional organization dedicated to the early childhood field in the United States. Become a WECA/NAEYC member to gain access to professional development and networking opportunities. You’ll also get connected with ways to become an engaged and informed advocate for early childhood with elected officials.
Wage Supplements
Paying livable wages is a challenge in the child care business model. The REWARD Wisconsin Stipend Program offers direct payments to providers based on their educational level. Those eligible can receive money to increase what they earn, helping child care programs stay in business and retain their staff.
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