The Early Childhood Workforce Advancement Act of 2026 directs the federal government to award competitive grants to partnerships that want to establish or expand career and technical education programs focused on early childhood education. These grants support activities like classroom instruction, apprenticeships, industry certifications (such as the Child Development Associate credential), educator recruitment and training, and support services for students including tutoring, child care assistance, and financial aid. Eligible partnerships must include a school district or other education provider paired with partners like colleges, child care providers, Head Start programs, or local businesses. The bill prioritizes grants to areas with childcare provider shortages, rural and urban communities, and programs serving infants and toddlers or children with disabilities, while ensuring geographic distribution across the country. Grants can last up to five years with a possible two-year extension, and recipients must submit annual reports measuring program outcomes and student performance.
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