Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program

Early childhood educators who work at least 25 hours/week providing care to infants and pre-school aged children can earn a no-cost Child Development Associate (CDA) credential through this apprenticeship program. Participants engage in learning-while-earning by taking college courses online to prepare for the CDA Credentialing Exam and complete their CDA Professional Portfolio.

Geographic Scope: Pennsylvania (supported by PA Department of Labor and Industry)

Eligibility:

• Work at least 25 hours/week providing care to infants and pre-school aged children
• Employer support required

Focus Areas:

• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential attainment
• Online college coursework
• Professional portfolio development
• CDA Credentialing Exam preparation

Benefits:

• Guaranteed wage increases
• Guaranteed work hours
• Work experience translates into college credits
• Trained Apprenticeship Coach support
• Loaner laptop (based on availability)
• All tuition, books, portfolio, and electronics are free if qualifying for PDO funding

Program Funding:
Supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry of the U.S. Department of Labor as part of an award totaling $94,017.00 (19%) with 81% ($379,990.00) financed from non-governmental sources.

Partners: Early Connections, PennWest, PASSHE PDO, NWPa JobConnect, PACareerLink, PA Dept of Labor and Industry

Contact:

• Apprenticeship Coordinator
• Email: mstanford@earlyconnectionserie.org
• Phone: (814) 874-0144
• Address: 200 W 11th St Suite 200, Erie, Pennsylvania 16501

How to Apply

1. Employer Approval: Tell your employer you want to pursue the Apprenticeship program
2. Submit Application: Visit the Apply page to apply for tuition and education cost coverage
3. Qualification Review: The program will determine if you qualify for PDO funding
4. Enrollment: Upon approval, begin online college coursework
5. Support: Work with your assigned Apprenticeship Coach throughout the program

Required Materials:

• Application form (via online portal)
• Employment verification (at least 25 hours/week in eligible childcare role)
• Employer approval/support

No sequencing requirement: CDA courses do not have to be taken in any particular order.