MISSOURI FAST TRACK FUNDING MAY BE AVAILABLE. Eligible Missouri apprentices participating in qualifying U.S. Department of Labor-approved apprenticeships may receive support through the Missouri Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant, subject to state eligibility and program
Early Education Career Institute (EECI) is building a parent-friendly pathway into Missouri's early childhood workforce through Registered Apprenticeship, virtual learning, credential preparation and hands-on experience.
PARENTS → BUILD A CAREER WHILE YOUR CHILDREN ARE IN SCHOOL
Two steps. Fully free. We guide you through every part.
Step 1: Complete your EECI enrollment application — apply at www.jotform.com/232223655877160
Step 2: Apply for the Missouri Fast Track grant at web.dhewd.mo.gov/studentportal — select the 2026–27 school year, find Early Education Career Institute (RA), and upload your 2025 tax return and any requested documents.
Tips: upload a clear photo or PDF, make sure your name is visible, and if you filed jointly upload the full return.
Step 3: Text a screenshot or confirmation to (833) 467-9997 — our team will guide you through next steps.
MISSOURI CHILDCARE DIRECTORS — BECOME A HOST SITE.
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Help us build Missouri's next early childhood workforce. Childcare centers, Head Start programs, community programs and other participating employers can explore becoming an EECI apprenticeship host/employer partner.
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HOST UP TO 15 PARTICIPANTS AT YOUR SITE. No minimum participation required. Your program may participate with 1, 3, 5, 10 or up to 15 individuals.
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Employer partners can help participants receive supervised workplace experience while developing a pipeline of potential: Teacher Aides, Substitutes, Early Childhood Educators, Future Lead Teachers. FAMILY CHILDCARE PROVIDERS ARE WELCOME!
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Licensed and eligible family childcare providers are encouraged to participate.
OCTOBER 2026 –MARCH 2027 PARENT-FRIENDLY VIRTUAL TRACK
Parents and adults receiving SNAP or other public benefits are encouraged to explore eligibility. Individual benefit and workforce requirements vary — confirm with your assigned agency or caseworker.
Use the hours while your children are in school to start building your career. Virtual classes only twice a week.
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Early Childhood Education career preparation
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CDA preparation and 120 training hours
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Digital professional portfolio
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Registered Apprenticeship participation
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Workforce readiness and professional development
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Preparation for employment in childcare and early education
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Schedule options: Nap and Learn (daytime), Evening sessions, and Sunday sessions (coming soon)
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Complete required background-check steps
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Gain supervised on-the-job experience
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Pursue opportunities as substitutes or teacher aides
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Work alongside experienced early childhood professionals
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Continue earning credentials while building employment experience
MARCH–MAY | MOVE INTO THE WORKPLACE
After building your foundation online, transition into supported, hands-on early childhood experiences.
