LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Child Care Planning Council, in partnership with First 5 Lake and First 5 California is now accepting applications for the 2013-2014 Steps to Quality Program for early childhood educators.

Steps to Quality offers generous stipends for completion of a year-long program designed to mentor early childhood educators, provide opportunities for professional growth, improve quality and reward those who are continuing their education.

The 2012-2013 provided over $30,000 in stipends to Lake County early childhood educators, and this year's program includes new professional growth opportunities and opportunities for education and quality improvement.

For more information on eligibility and requirements, and to access the application, visit www.lakecountychildcareplanning.com or contact the Lake County Child Care Planning Council at 707-262-4162.