MI SB0765

Creates the Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Program administered by the Office of Great Start within the Department of Education.

Provides scholarships up to $400 per semester credit hour at 4-year colleges/universities or $250 per semester credit hour at junior/community colleges for eligible early childhood education workers pursuing associate or baccalaureate degrees.

Restricts eligibility to Michigan residents earning not more than $17.00 per hour, working at least 25 hours per week for 40+ weeks annually in licensed early childhood education facilities, without prior 4-year degrees, and with no defaults on student loans.

Requires scholarship recipients to sign agreements committing to continue eligible employment during their studies and for 1 year after completion, with obligation to repay scholarships plus interest if they fail to meet this requirement.

Establishes the Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Fund within the state treasury, with funds available for appropriation to award scholarships and allowing repaid amounts to be reinvested in the program.