Expanding Pathways to Early Childhood Careers: The Pre-Apprenticeship Program
As a Registered Pre-Apprenticeship Sponsor, Early Connections collaborates with school districts, employers, and workforce boards across the region to strengthen the pipeline of the early childhood workforce.
The Early Childhood Education Pre-Apprenticeship Program offers a FREE opportunity to help high school & CTE students continue with higher education, help them apply for funding to cover the cost of the Child Development Associate (CDA) exam, and can open the door to employment and higher education opportunities.
Each successful Pre-Apprentice is guaranteed an interview with the Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program to discuss their education goals! They will also have entry-level opportunities in the childcare industry and be connected with job outreach events & information.
Components
- Integration with established apprenticeship programs as next steps
- Utilization of an approved training curriculum
- Experiential learning oriented toward career development
- Opportunity to obtain an accredited credential
- Provision of support services and professional career counseling
Benefits
Classroom and technology-based training are provided to develop work-readiness skills valued by employers. Participants may qualify for advanced standing in partnered apprenticeship programs.
Previous funding support has enabled the provision of resources and assistance, including:
- CDA Workbooks
- CDA Preparation Kits
- Technology
- PENNAEYC Memberships
- Scholarships for concurrent enrollment
- CDA testing preparation and exam opportunities
- Childcare employment support
We can help you get started today!
Contact Monica Stanford, Pre-Apprenticeship Coordinator at 814-874-0144 x 19, mstanford@earlyconnectionserie.org, or connect with us on the contact page.
