Cooper announces new early childhood education apprenticeship program

North Carolina has taken steps to expand opportunities for those entering the early childhood education workforce. 

Governor Roy Cooper announced the Building Bright Futures (BBF) program, which is designed to support new pathways to a career in early childhood education and care.

The apprenticeship program is a result of a collaboration between the North Carolina Business Committee for Education and the state Division of Child Development and Early Education.

BBF allows high school and postsecondary students to earn credentials while getting hands-on experience in the early childhood education field.

One official praised the initiative for encouraging students to enter the early care field, giving parents the freedom to go back to work, and securing a productive future workforce.

The announcement was made on Friday to coincide with Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.