From Play-Doh to Diplomas: A New Way to Teach

Turns out, you can go from finger paints to a bachelor’s degree without going broke—or giving up your day job.

Thanks to a groundbreaking new partnership between the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development and Lipscomb University, early childhood education is getting a much-needed upgrade. It's called the Foundations to Futures program, and it’s not just a mouthful—it’s a game-changer.

The program, launching this fall (pending final approvals), is Tennessee’s first Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Hub. Translation? It’s a tuition-free, earn-while-you-learn pathway that combines online coursework with real-life classroom experience. Participants won’t just study child development—they’ll live it during paid apprenticeships at local early learning centers like Little Wonders Early Learning Center in Nashville, the first official site.

Why it Matters

• Degrees without debt: Qualified participants pay zero for tuition, books, or program fees.
• Experience baked in: Every student gains hands-on experience while earning a paycheck.
• Closing the gap: Only 30% of childcare educators nationally hold bachelor’s degrees—this helps change that, starting in Tennessee.

This isn’t just a win for aspiring teachers. It’s a smart investment in the state’s future workforce. Quality early childhood education is directly linked to better outcomes down the road, and Tennessee is stepping up to meet demand with homegrown talent.

Little Wonders may be first, but they won’t be the last. The plan is to scale the program statewide, one preschool at a time, and make high-quality teaching credentials more accessible to those who’ve long had the heart—but not the means—to pursue them.

“This program removes barriers that have kept great educators on the sidelines,” said program leaders. “It’s about building careers, yes—but more importantly, building futures for Tennessee’s youngest learners.”

So, whether you’re a teacher’s aide looking to level up or someone who’s always had a knack for turning snack time into a teachable moment, the path to the classroom just got a lot clearer—and a whole lot cheaper.

Visit the Guide to Tennessee Directory for more info on educational programs, workforce initiatives, and childcare providers near you. www.guidetotennessee.com/education-childcare