Augusta, GA – In a move to recognize and reward the hard work of early childhood education professionals, the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) has announced the launch of a new initiative aimed at supporting teachers and staff at Quality Rated child care providers. The program, called the Quality Rated Workforce Bonuses (QRWB), will provide eligible child care workers with a $500 annual bonus, marking a significant step in the state’s ongoing commitment to improving early childhood education.

The QRWB initiative, which begins this month, is one of the first programs of its kind in the nation. It is designed to recognize full-time teachers and support staff who work in child care programs that exceed minimum standards and earn ratings of 1, 2, or 3 stars under Georgia’s Quality Rated system. This system evaluates and improves the quality of early care and education programs throughout the state.

Under the new program, bonuses will be distributed annually to all on-site teaching and support staff at Quality Rated child care centers. Each eligible employee is entitled to receive one payment per year, providing a financial boost to those who play a vital role in the development and care of Georgia’s youngest learners.

“Georgia’s child care teachers and staff work tirelessly every day to provide exceptional care and education to children,” said a spokesperson from DECAL. “This bonus is a tangible way to thank and recognize their dedication while encouraging the continued improvement of child care quality across the state.”

The new initiative is expected to have a positive impact not only on the morale of child care workers but also on the overall quality of care in Georgia. By tying the bonus to the Quality Rated system, DECAL is reinforcing the importance of high standards in early childhood education and incentivizing child care programs to meet those benchmarks.

The $500 bonuses are part of a broader effort by Georgia to invest in its early childhood education workforce. With many child care professionals often working long hours for low pay, this initiative provides much-needed financial recognition. It also highlights the state’s commitment to supporting the educators who play such a crucial role in shaping the future of children and communities.

This initiative sets a promising precedent, and many hope it will serve as a model for other states looking to recognize and reward the essential work of early childhood educators. The QRWB program is expected to continue in the coming years, further reinforcing the state’s dedication to improving the quality of child care and investing in the professionals who deliver it.