Early Childhood Education Pre-Apprenticeship Program

A FREE opportunity designed to help high school and CTE (Career and Technical Education) students continue with higher education, access funding for the Child Development Associate (CDA) exam, and open doors to employment opportunities in early childhood education.

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

Target Population:

• High school students
• CTE students
• Students preparing for early childhood education careers

Focus Areas:

• Connection to existing apprenticeship programs
• Approved training curriculum
• Hands-on learning with career focus
• Recognized credential opportunity (CDA)
• Career counseling and support

Key Elements:

• Connection to existing apprenticeship programs
• Approved training curriculum
• Hands-on learning with career focus
• Opportunity to earn recognized credential
• Access to support & career counseling

Benefits:

• Classroom & technology-based training
• Build work-readiness skills that employers value
• Qualify for advanced standing with partnered apprenticeship programs
• Guaranteed interview with Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program upon successful completion
• Entry-level employment opportunities in childcare industry
• Connection to job outreach events & information

Funding Support Provided:

• CDA workbooks/kits
• Tablets
• PENNAEYC memberships
• Scholarships for concurrent enrollment
• Free CDA testing opportunities

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:

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

How to Apply

1. Express Interest: Contact the Pre-Apprenticeship program coordinator
2. Application Submission: Complete and submit application form
3. Enrollment: Upon approval, begin classroom and technology-based training
4. Hands-On Learning: Participate in career-focused learning experiences
5. Credential Pursuit: Work toward CDA credential with program support
6. Apprenticeship Pathway: Upon successful completion, interview with Apprenticeship Program

Eligibility Requirements:

• High school or CTE student status
• Interest in early childhood education career
• Commitment to program participation

Program Support Includes:

• Work-readiness skill development
• Career counseling
• CDA workbooks and kits
• Tablets and technology access
• PENNAEYC memberships
• Scholarships for concurrent enrollment
• Free CDA testing