SDQPI Stipend

Overview

Stipend Intent: The SDQPI Stipend supports continuous quality improvement and professional growth in early learning and care (ELC) settings such as center-based programs, Family Child Care (FCC) providers, and Family, Friend and Neighbor (FFN) providers. Recognizing that these efforts often require time beyond the typical workday, this stipend is designed to acknowledge and promote additional time ELC workforce members invest in strengthening program quality and advancing their professional development.

Equitable Access: Transitional kindergarten (TK) and special education staff employed by school districts are not eligible for this stipend. These roles are part of a publicly funded education system that typically has greater access to resources than infants, toddlers, and preschool programs. Additionally, an annual salary cap of $97,861.45 will be applied per provider, based on the San Diego County Self-Sufficiency Standard. These determinations promote equitable distribution of stipend funds across the SDQPI workforce.

Application for Participation: SDQPI participants who wish to take part in the SDQPI Stipend will apply directly through the CA ECE Workforce Registry website. To apply, log in to the CA ECE Workforce Registry and click the “Stipends & Pathways” menu option, then select “Application.” Applicants who need further support may view this webinar on how to apply for a stipend in the Workforce Registry:  in English | in Spanish. 

Stipend Calculations: The stipend amount will be the same for all eligible applicants and will be established within the fourth quarter of the program year, based on the total number of eligible applicants, one stipend will be allocated per person/applicant.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SDQPI Stipend, applicants must: 

• Be actively employed at an SDQPI participant program  
• Be actively involved in quality improvement efforts and coaching  
• Complete all required tasks  
• Provide a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) on the W-9 form  
• Keep their workforce registry account profile updated  
• Serve in at least one of the approved or eligible roles:

Eligible Roles 

• Teacher / Lead Teacher / Co-Teacher 
• Assistant Teacher / Instructional Assistant 
• Assistant Site Leader (one per site) 
• Floater (must work ≥ 20 hours per week) 
• FCC/FFN Provider 
• FCC Assistant (see contract for details) 
• Site Leader (one per site) 

Non-Eligible Roles 

• Substitutes 
• Home Visitors
• Cafeteria Staff 
• Administrative Assistants  
• Maintenance and Operations Staff 

Required Tasks for ALL Stipend Applicants

IMPORTANT NOTICE 

To remain eligible for the stipend and comply with funding and contract requirements, applicants must submit all required tasks within designated timeframes. 

Stipend eligibility for site staff is dependent on the timely submission of all required agency-level data, including but not limited to demographics and employment verification. If an agency fails to submit this data on time, staff will not be eligible to receive a stipend—even if the delay is beyond their control.