Northern Michigan University has worked diligently to support NMU employees and students with their childcare needs. Through our efforts, we have partnered with both Harbor Light Early Education and Michigan TriShare. These partnerships have enabled us to assist in expanding the care available in the community to NMU students and employees as well as financially assist those eligible through the Michigan TriShare program.
Michigan Tri-Share Child Care Program
The MI TriShare Child Care Program (TriShare) is an innovative approach to increasing access to high-quality, affordable child care for working families who meet certain household income requirements, while also helping to retain talent and removing one major barrier to employment.
Through MI Tri-Share, the cost of an employee’s child care is shared equally among the employer, the employee, and the State of Michigan — a three-way split — with coordination provided by United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI). If you are eligible, you will save 66% on your child care
Northern Michigan University is a partnering employer in the MI Tri-Share Child Care Pilot Program with services facilitated by the MARESA, the Upper Peninsula's regional Tri-Share Hub with MARESA and United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI), the TriShare administrative partner.
With MI Tri-Share you can receive these childcare benefits as a parent of a child 0-17
- 2/3 of your childcare cost covered by NMU and the Tri-Share Grant
- Your Choice of Licensed Provider
- Available for traditional part-time or full-time care, preschool, summer care, before and after-school programs, and summer programs/camps.
Visit the link below to learn more about Tri-Share and complete the Tri-Share Interest Form
In September 2025, NMU partnered with Harbor Light Early Education to provide priority access and lower tuition rates to the NMU faculty, staff, and student population alongside flexible schedules.
Harbor Light Early Education is a boutique learning environment nestled in Marquette, providing a calm child-led environment rooted in a deep connection to nature and a commitment to inclusivity. With a Montessori inspired approach, they partner closely with parents to create a shared plan for their child's experience and gains from their time with Harbor Light.
Learn more by clicking the link below.