“ ‘We want Massachusetts to be the best place to raise a family and build a career, and supporting early educators is a big part of that,’ said Governor Maura Healey. ‘That’s why we’re helping 248 educators pay down their student loans and keep more of their hard-earned money. When we invest in early educators, we strengthen our workforce, give children a strong start and help families get the care they need.’ ”

“The Early Childhood Educator Loan Repayment Program, a partnership between the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) and Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), provides eligible recipients with up to $7,500 per year in student loan repayment assistance. The program is designed to help experienced early educators stay in the field, build long-term careers and continue providing high-quality care and education for children and families.”

“ ‘Educators working in early education and child care make an extraordinary commitment to the children and families they serve, and we want Massachusetts to be a place where they can build rewarding, sustainable careers,’ said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. ‘This first group of recipients represents educators working across our early education and care system, and this investment is one more way we are supporting their professional growth and compensation, while recognizing their experience and strengthening the workforce.’ ”

—“Governor Healey Announces First-Ever Student Loan Repayment Awards for 248 Early Educators,” Mass.gov Press Release, September 3, 2026