(a) In this section, “program” means the professional development scholarship program established under this section.
(b) From funds appropriated for the purpose, the commission shall establish and administer a professional development scholarship program for current and prospective child-care workers.

(c) A scholarship under the program may be used to pay an individual’s costs related to:
(1) earning:
(A) a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; or
(B) an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or another related field from a public or private institution of higher education; and
(2) participation in a registered child-care apprenticeship program.
(d) The program may be used to pay for other ancillary costs for child-care workers who are enrolled in an educational program or apprenticeship program described by Subsection (c), including:
(1) books and supplies;
(2) release time or stipends to attend classes;
(3) costs related to the examination for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential;
(4) travel to attend classes or attend a hands-on practicum training; and
(5) stipends for mentors or master teachers who provide hands-on training at a child-care program.