Bright Futures AZ Initiative Provides $1 Million in Child Care Scholarships for Early Childhood Educators

Scholarships empower early childhood educators to continue leading their classrooms while supporting their child care needs

Phoenix - The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) announced today the opening of the Bright Futures AZ Scholarship, which supports early childhood educators so they can continue their vital work while meeting their own child care needs. The scholarship is made available through $1 million in one-time American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds as part of Governor Katie Hobbs’ Bright Futures AZ initiative.

“Early childhood educators are integral for ensuring Arizona’s parents can work, further their careers and pursue higher education knowing their children are cared for,” said DES Director Michael Wisehart. “We must also do right by our child care providers so they, too, can do their important work with this peace of mind.”

Certified and licensed child care programs that contract with DES were directly notified of the scholarship opportunity on May 1 and can submit applications starting today (May 5th) through May 31st for each eligible educator they employ. Employees are eligible for the scholarship if they meet all of the following conditions:

• Has an infant or toddler (birth to 24 months) with or without a delay/disability, or a child 3-5 years old with a delay/disability, who is served by the provider;
• Is a Lead Teacher or Assistant Teacher;
• Has a Household Income up to 85% State Median Income (SMI); and
• Are not currently receiving DES Child Care Assistance.

Award notifications are anticipated to be sent in June. Anticipated awards will be $500 per month, per eligible educator between July 2025 and June 2026. An estimated 170 educators will be served through this scholarship. Scholarships are limited.

Please note: The application was directly sent to eligible providers and will not be posted online. This is a different program from standard child care assistance, which is available online. DES child care assistance has a waiting list in place for most families applying to the program. However, families in need may find extra support and options through Child Care Resource & Referral.