Cambridge Agenda for Children OST Receives $100,000 Grant to Pilot Registered Apprenticeship Program for Out-of-School Time Educators

Summary

The Cambridge Agenda for Children Out-of-School-Time (AFCOST) has been awarded a $100,000 grant to launch a registered apprenticeship program aimed at training 25 new staff members in out-of-school time (OST) education. This 18-month program, set to start in July 2026, will provide comprehensive training and support to enhance workforce stability in Massachusetts' early education sector.

This initiative comes at a critical juncture as the state grapples with significant economic losses due to workforce instability in child care. By establishing a structured pathway for professional development, the program aims to improve retention rates and elevate the quality of OST experiences for children, making a positive impact on the overall educational landscape in Cambridge and beyond.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This story highlights the growing recognition of registered apprenticeship programs as vital tools for building a skilled workforce in early education. By investing in comprehensive training and support for OST educators, programs like AFCOST's can create sustainable career pathways that benefit both employees and the families they serve.