BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $1.8 million in Grants for Registered Apprenticeship Opportunities in Workforce (GROW) to eight organizations to train and place more than 300 apprentices in early childhood education careers across the state.

 

"Our administration has been committed to expanding the Registered Apprenticeship model into industries like early childhood education so we can strength the talent pipeline," said Governor Maura Healey. "Through the GROW grants, we're creating real pathways for educators to learn, earn and advance their careers, while helping providers attract and retain the talent they need. These investments are building a strong early education system, and in turn, a more competitive Massachusetts."

 

In Berkshire County, MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board was awarded $198,375 to register a new early childhood education registered apprenticeship and enroll 3 cohorts of 10 apprentices in identified childcare desert of Berkshire County over three years.

 

In September, Massachusetts was awarded $5 million from the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) to partner with employers with the goal of rapidly scaling early childhood education Registered Apprenticeship Programs and creating a Technical Assistance Hub for early childhood education apprenticeships.

 

Registered Apprenticeship provides individuals with paid work experience including classroom instruction and on-the-job training combined with securing nationally recognized credentials, progressive wage increases, and economic mobility and advancement.

 

Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones made the announcement at the YMCA of Greater Boston's Chinatown location. Among grantees, the YMCA Greater Boston received $300,000 to enroll 50 early childhood educator apprentices throughout Greater Boston as well as working with the Alliance of YMCAs to expand into childcare deserts where at least 10 apprentices will be placed.