Need money to further your education in child development or early childhood education? Apply for a Gateways Scholarship!
Do you want extra money for completing college coursework and staying employed at the same place? Great START does just that! Get more information about how you can participate!
Are you considering applying for a Gateways Credential? Gateways Credentials are symbols of professional achievement that validate knowledge, skills and experience. They are an individual achievement that you can be proud of.
Gateways Credentials are awarded and recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Bureau of Child Care and Development. They are required for some Circles of Quality in ExceleRate Illinois and can be used to help with employment decisions in early learning programs.
Below are the Credentials offered by Gateways. You can click each Credential title to see information about applying, specific requirements, and the forms you will need.
An entry level credential for those just entering the field
For ECE professionals who have education beyond high school and experience with children birth to age 8
For child care professionals working with children from birth to age 3
For administrators of ECE and School-Age Programs
For professionals working with children and youth ages 5-18
For professionals who offer relationship-based professional development
For a professional working in their home as a family child care provider for children ages birth through 12 years
For professionals who provide direct services to children and families, such as Parent Educators, Family Advocates and Case Workers
Search for colleges and universities in your area that offer courses in child development and child care related topics
For colleges and universities interested in becoming entitled for one or more Gateways Credentials
When you apply for any Gateways program, ensure the email address linked to your Gateways Registry membership is accurate and current. You should check this email inbox on a regular basis. You should also ensure emails from Gateways are not being filtered to your junk/spam folder.
If the commitment requirement is not met, an invoice will be sent for the amount paid on your behalf for your most recent contract.
If you are not providing care for Illinois children during the commitment period, you will be asked to re-pay the amount paid on your behalf for your most recent contract.
If you lose your job or change employment, you will need to find new employment in early care and education in an eligible program and eligible position. If you do not find new employment in early care and education in an eligible program and eligible position, you will be asked to re-pay the amount paid on your behalf for your most recent contract.
If an individual should go on FMLA/Maternity leave, individuals are able to finish their commitment upon return. All cases will be reviewed individually.
It also provides standards, guidelines, resources and supports to help you make sensible changes that lead to better quality outcomes for children.
