Signal Centers Programs

WAGE$

An education-based salary supplement program for early childhood professionals

Education-based salary supplement program for early childhood professionals

Learn if you qualify for a supplement

Details coming soon

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Helping to create more stable learning environments for children by supporting educators


Educator retention is a primary goal of WAGE$. Creating a more stable learning environment aids in a child's development during their early years. By prioritizing the welfare of teachers, WAGE$ nurtures the future of Tennessee's youngest learners, fostering a brighter educational landscape for all.

Program Snapshot

Results at a glance

Need

Increase educator compensation to reduce turnover

Response

$21,793,904

Salary supplements distributed

Need

Increase post-secondary education for early childhood professionals

Response

55%

Of WAGE$ recipients have at least an Associate's degree or have completed additional college coursework over the last year

Need

Reduce turnover of early childhood professionals to stabilize the early learning environment for young children

Response

17%

Turnover rate among WAGE$ recipients (compared to over 30% from non-WAGE$ recipients)

You're eligible for a salary supplement if you:

  • Work in a TN DHS licensed child care program
  • Earn $20 or less per hour
  • Have one of the education levels listed in the Salary Supplement Scale
  • Have worked at least 6 months in the same child care program with children ages birth - five, at least 10 hours per week in the classroom
  • Are employed at the same child care program when funding is available, and a final confirmation has been completed

WAGE$

Program Information

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Documents and Forms

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WAGE$

Frequently asked questions

Testimonials

Hear from our community

The money I get from WAGE$ helps me to pay bills on time. But more than that, it feels like we are being appreciated for our work. It is also a motivator; a motivator to go back to school or to be a better teacher.
Antonia Granell-Rivera
WAGE$ Recipient
Without that village behind us, we can’t do what we do. We need help. We really appreciate that WAGE$ is behind us. They stand up for us so we can stand up for the children in our care.
Debbie Pennington
WAGE$ Recipient
Having this little extra money is the difference of working a second job and having my focus 100% on the kids here and not worrying about supplementing my income by working at multiple different jobs.
Stephanie Kolakowski
WAGE$ Recipient
I have been a participant in the WAGE$ program for two-and-a-half years now. It is great knowing that I'll get that little boost a few times a year, which allows me to do fun things with my family. That, in turn, makes me feel fresh when I come into the classroom. I thank the WAGE$ program for giving us this extra supplement and acknowledging us.
Michelle Carollo
WAGE$ Recipient

WAGE$

Meet our team

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