State Celebrates Launch of Loan Repayment Program for Early Childhood Educators

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration is celebrating the recent launch of the state’s first-ever Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Loan Repayment Program created specifically for early education and care professionals. Applications opened on March 10 and will close on June 1.

The $15 million program aims to support and retain the early education workforce by helping eligible educators reduce their student loan debt. This opportunity is available to professionals working in a range of settings, including family childcare (FCC), center-based programs, after-school and out-of-school time programs, residential placement programs, and contracted FCC systems that work directly with children, families, or other educators.

“We know how important early educators are to our families and our economy, and we’re taking action to support them,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “This first-in-the-state loan repayment program will help reduce student debt, keep talented educators in the field, and expand access to high-quality early education and care across Massachusetts. We’re making it easier for educators to build their careers and continue supporting children and families in communities across our state.”

The program supports early educators who have degrees in early childhood education and are currently working in licensed programs in Massachusetts. Eligible participants can receive help paying back student loans if they commit to continuing to work in the field.

To qualify, applicants must have earned an associate degree or bachelor’s degree in an approved field from a public or private college or university in Massachusetts after July 1, 2013, and must be working in an EEC-licensed or funded program. Priority will be given to educators with five or more years of experience, as well as those working in high-need communities or areas with limited access to early education and care.

Educators can learn more, apply, or watch recorded information sessions by visiting www.mass.edu/eceloanrepayment.

“Early education and care professionals play a critical role in children’s development and in supporting families and communities,” Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw said. “This loan repayment program is a significant investment in the workforce, helping educators stay in their programs while also strengthening our ability to recruit, support, and retain talent across Massachusetts.”

This loan repayment program is one of several joint efforts by DHE and EEC to support the early education workforce. Another key initiative is the Early Childhood Educators (ECE) Scholarship, which helps educators advance their qualifications by earning a college degree. To learn more about the ECE Scholarship, visit mass.gov/eec/ecescholarship.