Early Educator Wage Initiative Expands Eligibility in Northeast Michigan
Early childhood educators in Northeast Michigan may now qualify for monthly wage supplements through the Region 3 Early Educator Wage Initiative.
This two-year initiative provides direct wage support to eligible childcare professionals working in licensed programs throughout Region 3, which includes the counties of:
- Alcona
- Alpena
- Cheboygan
- Crawford
- Iosco
- Montmorency
- Ogemaw
- Oscoda
- Otsego
- Presque Isle
- Roscommon
Eligible educators may receive:
- $300 per month if working 30 or more hours per week
- $200 per month if working 10–29 hours per week
Who is Eligible?
You may qualify if you:
- Work at a licensed childcare program in Region 3
- Have an up-to-date MiRegistry profile with verified employment and wage information
- Serve as a Lead Teacher/Caregiver, Assistant Teacher, or Family Child Care Assistant (owner/operators serving in these roles are also eligible)
- Earn $20.00 per hour or less, or an equivalent annual salary of $41,600 or less
- Work an average of at least 10 hours per week
For school-year employees, the annual income limit of $41,600 may equate to a higher hourly wage depending on the number of hours worked during the year. If you are unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to apply.
How the Application Process Works
- Complete the online application.
- Ensure your MiRegistry profile is current and your employment information is verified.
- Applicants are reviewed monthly and notified of next steps.
- NEMCSA and other participating employers do not submit applications for employees. Eligible educators apply directly.
- Once approved, the employer will receive a monthly email requesting employment verification.
Applications are open now and will remain available until all stipend funds have been claimed.
Apply here: Region 3 Wage Initiative Application