CHILD-CARE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.

(a) In this section, "program" means the professional development scholarship program established under this section.

(b) From funds appropriated for the purpose, the commission shall establish and administer a professional development scholarship program for current and prospective child-care workers.

(c) A scholarship under the program may be used to pay an individual's costs related to:

(1) earning:

(A) a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; or

(B) an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or another related field from a public or private institution of higher education; and

(2) participation in a registered child-care apprenticeship program.

(d) The program may be used to pay for other ancillary costs for child-care workers who are enrolled in an educational program or apprenticeship program described by Subsection (c), including:

(1) books and supplies;

(2) release time or stipends to attend classes;

(3) costs related to the examination for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential;

(4) travel to attend classes or attend a hands-on practicum training; and

(5) stipends for mentors or master teachers who provide hands-on training at a child-care program.