We are pleased to announce that we are now recruiting for the seventh cohort of participants for our Pathways for Parents program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering parents to pursue early childhood education careers while successfully managing the demands of work and family life.
Pathways for Parents is a cohort-based program designed to provide comprehensive support to parents who aspire to pursue a college education in early childhood education. The program is currently serving 60 dedicated participants across six cohorts, and we are proud to share the remarkable progress made thus far.
Impact and Progress:
Enrollment Persistence:
An impressive 70% of enrollees are persisting in the program. This statistic underscores the effectiveness of our support systems and the commitment of our participants to overcome the challenges they face.
Workforce Skill Enhancement and Diversity:
External evaluation research has highlighted a notable increase in workforce skills among program participants. Furthermore, the program has contributed to a greater diversity within the early childhood education field, a vital step towards creating a more inclusive workforce.
Support for Parent Populations:
Our tailored approach to supporting parent populations has proven to be a game-changer. Over 90% of our students are currently employed while taking courses and caring for their children and families. This approach acknowledges the multifaceted lives of parents and provides the support they need to succeed.
Peer-to-Peer Interventions:
Our program incorporates valuable peer-to-peer interventions, which have yielded significant positive outcomes. These interventions increase social support, boost confidence, enhance self-efficacy, decrease mental health symptoms, and improve the utilization of essential tools and resources among participants.
Family Supported Employment Practices:
In 2021, a qualitative evaluation, conducted in collaboration with parents, led to the creation of a family-supported employment practices template. This innovative tool empowers parents to engage effectively with employers, fostering a workplace environment that accommodates their unique needs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Pathways for Parents is a program that is not only transforming lives but also advancing the field of early childhood education. It is a testament to the power of tailored support, peer collaboration, and the resilience of parents who are determined to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our funders, including the McCormick Foundation, and donors whose generosity has made this program possible. Your support has enabled us to create opportunities that were once considered out of reach for many. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, as together, we strive to empower more parents and make a lasting impact on the early childhood education sector.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Pathways for Parents and the families it serves.