The TEACH Early Childhood® Indiana scholarship provides a way for the early learning workforce to obtain their college education and graduate debt-free! This national program is only available in Indiana through the Indiana AEYC Early Childhood Professional Development Department.

Read Tarita’s Grad Story below in her own words!

You’re Never Too Old

At 65 years old, I had convinced myself that I had missed my opportunity to ever walk across a graduation stage. After earning my associate’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University 24 years earlier, I never imagined I would return to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Like so many adults, I put my own dreams on hold while raising my family, supporting my husband as he earned his third degree, putting all three of my sons through college, building a career, and serving my church and community.

Then I learned about the TEACH Early Childhood® Program, and everything changed. TEACH believed in me. Their financial support and encouragement gave me the opportunity to return to Indiana Wesleyan University and fulfill a lifelong dream. More than 40 years ago, I told my fourth-grade teacher, “One day, I’m going to be a teacher like you.” At 65 years old, I finally walked across that graduation stage with my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and my childhood dream became a reality. This journey reminded me that you’re never too old to chase a dream. I am living proof that dreams don’t have an expiration date. You’re never too old, and it’s never too late. Your dream is still worth pursuing.