FORM PURPOSE:

Please complete this application for Imagine U, a mentorship program that will support you on your path to becoming a licensed family child care provider.  The Imagine U program is designed exclusively for individuals who are committed to:

• Opening their own licensed family child care business
• Enrolling at least one child who receives a Wasington State child care subsidy
• Gaining additional technology support through the licensing process
• Have a commitment to racial equity

Applicants will be notified of next steps for the Imagine U program by email. Read and follow the instructions carefully before submitting your application.

The Imagine Institute is dedicated to racial equity and inclusion. Whenever possible, the organization will collect both racial/ethnic demographics of program participants and primary language preferences to determine the impact of services and opportunities provided to early childhood educators and contractors in Washington State.

Information regarding gender, ethnic origin, and race are optional. The information is requested in no way affects your program approval. 

Program Eligibility: The Imagine Institute does not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected class.

By signing the space below, you are certifying that all information is correct and that you are the person completing this application. When you press the submit button, you will receive an email confirmation that your application was received. Please print for your records and retain as verification of your application.

You will need to obtain a STARS ID.  You can obtain your STARS ID by: 

• Contacting Imagine's technical assistance program at 206-492-5249 for assistance in creating your STARS ID.
• Filling out the MERIT Registration form (they will issue a STARS ID number)

WASHINGTON STATE RESIDENCY

The Imagine U program is open to current Washington State residents who have not previously opened and operated a licensed family child care business in Washington state.  APPLICANTS MUST CURRENTLY RESIDE IN THE HOME THEY PLAN TO HAVE APPROVED FOR LICENSING. 

COMMITMENT TO SERVING FAMILIES RECEIVING CHILD CARE SUBSIDY

The Imagine U program applicants must commit to serving families who receive a child care subsidy.  Applicants who will not serve subsidized families are not eligible for the program.

EDUCATION

Applicants who have either obtained a high school diploma or GED equivalent are eligible for the Imagine U program.  Additional educational requirements after licensure may be required to maintain your license. 

SCHEDULING AND ATTENDANCE

• Applicants who are not available to attend regularly scheduled trainings will not qualify for the Imagine U program. 
• Applicants who cannot complete the 20 monthly paid internship hours will not qualify for the Imagine U program.