Madison College partnership offers Early Childhood Education Diploma scholarship for eligible students

Residents and employees in Dodge and Jefferson Counties can earn a Basic Early Childhood Educator Diploma at no cost through a scholarship partnership between Madison College and the Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation (GWCHF).

The scholarship opportunity helps individuals build the skills and credentials needed to work in early care and education while supporting the region’s need for qualified childcare professionals.

Since the partnership began in 2023, 122 students have received scholarship support to complete early childhood education coursework at Madison College.

The investment in early childhood education is part of GWCHF’s larger commitment to expanding childcare opportunities throughout the region. Since 2023, GWCHF has provided more than $5.7 million in grants and programmatic investments to support the creation of 532 new childcare slots across Dodge and Jefferson Counties. 

“Building a strong early childhood workforce means investing in the people already doing this important work and creating opportunities for others to enter the field, said Tina Melcher, Chief Impact Officer at the Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation. “Through our partnership with Madison College, individuals can connect with peers, develop new skills and pursue credentials in both English and Spanish—creating opportunities for personal and professional growth while strengthening early care and education across our region.”

By working together, Madison College and GWCHF continue to create opportunities for community members to gain credentials, advance their careers, and help meet the growing need for early childhood educators. 

“Every new childcare slot needs a qualified educator to make it possible,” said Shawna Marquardt, Dean of Madison College Branch Campuses. “By pairing GWCHF’s investment in childcare with Madison College’s workforce training, we’re helping more people earn credentials and enter a field that is essential to families, employers and the strength of our communities.”

For those looking to continue their education, the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association (WECA) also offers a pathway for eligible early care educators to earn a bachelor’s degree while continuing to work in the field. 

Students can complete the Basic Early Childhood Education Diploma in less than one year. The technical diploma provides a foundation in early childhood education and can be completed at the Madison College Watertown Campus or online. These courses are embedded in the Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program so that students can continue their education toward an associate degree.

Prospective students can attend an info session on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 6-7 p.m. at Madison College Watertown Campus, 1300 W. Main St. Meet with instructors, tour facilities, and learn about the Early Childhood Education Program and scholarships. Refreshments will be provided. Prospective students interested in scholarship opportunities should contact Madison College Watertown Campus at 920-206-8000 to begin the enrollment process now.

Learn more about the Madison College Early Childhood Education Program.