2024 Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area's Workforce Incentive Awards
Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area presented Workforce Incentive Award checks totaling $222,000 across 20 early learning centers in the Rural Capital Area. The award recognized 62 early learning teachers who hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or a post-secondary degree. These educators have served in the same Texas Rising Star program for at least one year, demonstrating their dedication to delivering quality early education to Texas children. This initiative supports early learning centers in retaining qualified staff within the early learning field.
A Moment of Recognition for Early Childhood Educators
The incentive checks are part of a larger strategy to support early learning centers and foster staff professional growth.
- Early care teacher Lily Lincoln at Amy's Adventures said receiving the check was both emotional and rewarding. “It’s the passion for child care,” Lincoln reflected. “I don’t think just anybody can come into this field and expect to do the job in the way a child care worker should. It takes dedication, a lot of patience, and a true love for supporting children’s development.”
- Hayley Closser, an early care teacher at Bright Star Academy School, expressed her gratitude for the recognition. “I genuinely love what I do,” Closser said. “I look for ways to grow every year as an educator. This is honestly a blessing—that’s what I called it when I received it. We don’t teach for money, but this is a beautiful system. I love to do what I do and find new ways to help our kids thrive,” said Closser.”
Supporting Early Learning Centers
Workforce Solutions Child Care Services recognizes the essential role of early learning staff in child development. These incentive checks demonstrate the value of their work and highlight a commitment to the field.
- Amy Payne, director of Amy’s Adventures, shared her gratitude for the incentives her teachers received. “Being able to reward my staff in this way is very meaningful,” Payne explained. “As much as I want to give, as a small business, there’s a limit. The fact that another organization can step in and recognize my staff like this makes a huge difference,” said Payne.”
- Stephanie Lampi, director of Bright Star Academy Schools, was thrilled to honor her early care teachers. “I think it shows that there are teachers out there dedicated to the work of pouring their passion and skills into the children. Everything starts in early childhood—being here, being a part of their lives, teaching them skills they can carry through life,” Lampi said.
Creating a Brighter Future for Child Care
Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area celebrates these early learning teachers and their unwavering commitment to educating and nurturing the young children of the Rural Capital Area.
TOPICS: Child Care Services
