Early Educators for Thriving Children Fellowship (EETC)

The EETC fellowship helps teachers translate their knowledge, visions and goals to action with the support of a coach and peer group ready to help one another thrive. Learn, grow, lead, as part of the Early Educators for Thriving Children fellowship.

Purpose

The EETC Fellowship is a vibrant community of early childhood educators dedicated to exploring play-based learning, adult mental health and social-emotional growth, and developmentally appropriate practice.

Through coaching, collaboration, and peer support, teachers gain the tools and confidence to bring their visions to life in the classroom. We prioritize educators' well-being and growth, knowing that when teachers thrive, their students do too!

Benefits for Fellows

EETC fellows receive:

  • Supportive group professional development, with ISBE credit available

  • Coaching tailored to your classroom's needs

  • Access to online modules and resources

  • Microgrants to support your classrooms and school improvement plans

  • A network of early educators across CPS

Program Commitments

To get the most out of the fellowship, we ask for participants to:

  • Attend quarterly group sessions, available in person and virtual, between September & June

  • Present progress and challenges, share learning with a small cohort of schools

  • Engage in quarterly coaching calls with EETC Coaches

  • Network with a supportive community of educators at events (happy hour, workshops, celebrations)

Eligibility

We prioritize Pre-K, Kindergarten, First & Second grade teachers from CPS schools who meet a combination of the following criteria:

  • Work in CPS schools with student populations of 75% or higher free and reduced priced lunch

  • Be able to dedicate time and human resources to focused improvement effort with support from administration (ideally 2-3 teachers per school)

We’re still accepting applications! Want to learn more? Email Jamie Huenink at Jamieh@VOCEL.org with any questions.