ECC awards $96,000 grant to help student parents achieve educational goals

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Elgin Community College a Child Care Access Means Parents in School grant.

The award is for one year, with the potential for an extension of up to three more years for a total of $383,864.

The grant money will be primarily used to fund child care subsidies for PELL eligible student parents, allowing them to bring their children to ECC's Early Childhood Lab School at an affordable rate while they attend classes at ECC.

The grant also will allow the school to develop and host parent workshops and engagement events, a community resource booklet, and resurface aging playground equipment.

"Child care is a major barrier for parents of young children who wish to further their education. Having access to high quality, affordable child care right here on campus undoubtedly helps student parents attend school and pursue their goals, thereby creating a promising and stable future for their young family," said Beth Mrofcza, director of child care services.

The Early Childhood Lab School at ECC holds an Illinois ExceleRate Silver Circle of Quality rating. The lab school provides care services for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years old. Student parents can use the lab school's flexible scheduling in two- to three-hour blocks, helping to minimize their total child care costs.

Applications for the subsidies will be available during the spring enrollment period.

Student parents with questions can contact the lab school at (847) 214-7376.