Early Education Apprenticeship Program

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EARN while you LEARN

The Early Education Apprenticeship Program (EEA) is a career pathway for child care providers and future early educators. It serves Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties. As an apprentice, you get paid on-the-job learning, flexible college coursework, and one-on-one coaching in an early childhood classroom.

You may also receive wage increases, milestone stipends, and college credit at McLennan Community College (MCC) within your first 12 months. Prior work experience and college credit may count toward some EEA requirements.

Applications Open Year-Round!

Apply Now

Program Information

The EEA program is built on stackable credentials, so you can grow your early childhood career while you work. Start at ECE Level 1, move up to Level 2, and work toward an Associate of Applied Science degree in Child Development — all while gaining hands-on classroom experience.

Apprenticeship Tracks


ECE1 — Early Childhood Level 1

ECE2 — Early Childhood Level 2

ECE3 — Associate of Applied Science

Apprenticeship Benefits & Eligibility

Benefits

  • On-the-job training with an assigned apprenticeship specialist
  • Earn while you learn with recommended wage increases
  • One-on-one support from an apprenticeship specialist
  • Flexible college coursework designed for working students
  • Grow your career without giving up income
  • Stackable credentials that lead to an Associate of Applied Science degree

Requirements

  • Live or work in Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, or McLennan County
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Have a valid ID and required documents
  • Work 30+ hours a week in a Texas Rising Star program

First Steps

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  1. Complete the apprenticeship application (select the Apply Now button above)
  2. Meet with the apprenticeship specialist to discuss your goals and plan your pathway
  3. Complete the MCC admissions application
  4. Submit required documents such as a photo ID and high school diploma or GED
  5. Begin your on‑the‑job training and coursework
The Early Education Apprenticeship is provided in partnership with:
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McLennan Community College

Contact

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Shari Buzbee Page
Early Childhood Apprenticeship Specialist
Child Studies & Education

  254-299-8728
  spage@mclennan.edu

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Amanda Castro
MCC Faculty EEA Liaison
Child Studies & Education

  254-299-8789
  acastro@mclennan.edu

Student Spotlight

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Emily Neal

Emily Neal began her apprenticeship in June 2023 as part of the program’s first-ever cohort. After earning her ECE Level 1 credential, she secured her first job in early childhood education. Today, she works in a preschool classroom while continuing to earn more certifications and pursue her associate degree.

“Every day, I see the impact I can make in children’s lives, and it inspires me to keep learning.”

Links & Resources