What documents must be uploaded with my CDA Application Fee Scholarships application?

The following documents must be uploaded with your application:

  • Copy of certificate or academic transcript documenting 120 clock-hours of CDA training with a Georgia-approved trainer.

  • Copies of two recent paystubs reflecting the name of your employer, your name, and gross and net year-to-date wages. If you are a Family Child Care Learning Home or a Director/Owner and do not pay yourself W-2 wages, you should submit a copy of last year’s Schedule C, Schedule K, or other federal tax form documenting net business income. If your paystubs do not meet these requirements, we may ask for additional information.

  • Copy of YourCouncil (CDA Council) CDA Profile page reflecting your customer ID number.
  • Copy of the FRONT and BACK of a secure and verifiable document.
  • Copy of your Georgia Professional Development System profile reflecting your GaPDS number, the name of your current employer, and a “Pending” or “Active” status (click here for more information).

Do I pay for the CDA Application Fee and submit my receipt for reimbursement?

Submitting your application and allowing DECAL Scholars to pay the CDA Council directly for your application fee after approval is a much faster payment process.

You also have the option to pay the CDA application fee yourself to the CDA Council and submit the receipt to DECAL Scholars with your application for reimbursement. Please note that this method may require a longer payment process.

How do I renew my Montessori Scholarships each term?

You can renew your Academic Scholarship for your Montessori program if you maintain an eligible employment status and good standing with your educational institution. 

No earlier than 60 days prior to the start of your next term, submit a renewal application. Please include the following documents (if there isn’t a designated upload category for any of these documents, you can upload them as “Additional Documents” under the “Documents” section of your application):

  • Copy of Proof of Enrollment and Good Standing Letter from your educational institution
  • Copies of two recent paystubs reflecting the name of your employer, your name, and gross and net year-to-date wages. If you are a Family Child Care Learning Home or a Director/Owner and do not pay yourself W-2 wages, you should submit a copy of last year’s Schedule C, Schedule K, or other federal tax form documenting net business income. If your paystubs do not meet these requirements, we may ask for additional information.

Montessori program terms are defined for the DECAL Scholarships program as follows: January-May, June-July, and August-December.

How much will I receive from the Montessori Scholarships program?

If you meet the eligibility requirements each term you are enrolled, you will receive Scholarships funds as follows:

  • A maximum of $2,496 per term (Montessori program terms are defined for the DECAL Scholarships program as follows: January-May, June-July, and August-December) toward the cost of tuition and mandatory fees at your Montessori program

You will also receive a support stipend as follows:

  • $500 per term