GREENFIELD — Recognizing a need for qualified early childhood educators, Greenfield Community College (GCC) is launching a new, tuition-free Child Development Associate (CDA) and Early Childhood Education (ECE) Lead Teacher Certification program.
According to a GCC press release, this ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort allows qualified educators to expand their skills and acquire advanced credentials in their field. The program prepares students for the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) certifications and the Child Development Associate Plus (CDA+) credential — the most widely recognized national credential for early educators.
“Early childhood educators are essential workers and there is a renewed recognition of their importance in our communities,” GCC’s statement reads. “Quality early education supports our economy, provides access to equity for children and families, and creates an environment where our youngest citizens can thrive.”
The ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort is supported by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, making all classes free to eligible individuals currently working in the early childhood education and care field, the release states.
The ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort program begins in the fall semester, and is an accelerated program with 18 credits earned over three semesters. The program provides free tuition, fees, books and other materials, as well as teaching practicums, on-site observation and specialized coaching. According to the release, the fall class will involve remote teaching with practicum experiences that meet the safety protocols necessitated by the pandemic.
For students wanting to complete the Early Childhood Education associate’s degree at GCC, all ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort credits can be applied, the release states. Scholarships and funding programs are available.
One virtual information session on the ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort has already been held, and two more are scheduled for July 15 at 7 p.m. and July 16 at 1 p.m. Register for a session at gcc.mass.edu/education/career-pathways.
To apply for the fall semester’s ECE Certificate/CDA Plus Cohort program, visit go.gcc.mass.edu/cd or contact Kim Audette at audettek@gcc.mass.edu. For more information, contact Peggy Martalock, associate professor and education program director, at matalockp@gcc.mass.edu or 413-775-1118.