Northwest Early Childhood Education (ECE) Professional Development Organization (PDO) Grant

Mercyhurst University is excited to partner with the Northwest Institute of Research (NWIR) to offer the Northwest Early Childhood Education (ECE) Professional Development Organization (PDO) grant to eligible students in the region. Funded by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), this grant helps early childhood educators gain the skills, credentials, and support they need to make a lasting impact in early childhood education.

We believe every child deserves the very best start in life, and that begins with supporting the educators who guide them. Through our partnership with the Northwest ECEPDO, we are removing the financial and academic barriers that often stand in the way of career advancement. Qualified early childhood educators can now pursue their credentials and degrees at no cost, with full support every step of the way.

This grant covers tuition, fees, books, technology, and peer tutoring, which ensures that students not only start their educational journey but also complete it. With higher credentials come greater opportunities, such as increased wages, stronger teaching skills, and the ability to provide the highest quality care for our youngest learners. Together, we are investing in educators, empowering them to make a lasting difference for children, families, and our community.

We provide the following programs under the Northwest PDO grant:

• CDA credential
• A.A. in Early Childhood Education
• B.A. in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4)
• B.A. in Early Childhood Education (PreK-4)/Special Education (PreK-12)

The eligibility requirements for this opportunity are as follows:

• PA resident
• Current employee at a certified child care program in PA for three months or demonstrate a history of six months in child care if newly hired.
• Work an average of 25 hours per week in a certified child care program.
• Earn no more than $21.63 if you are a child care teacher, assistant, or aide.
• Earn no more than $25 if you are a child care director.