TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHILD CARE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST FEDERALLY REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM, PLEASE READ THROUGH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION.

To apply for the Apprenticeship Program, please click here

The Childcare Development Specialist Apprenticeship allows job seekers and early learning professionals to choose their own path to become early childhood  teacher/director qualified while learning on the job skills with on-site support.

This program allows teachers to work together with support from their employer and mentor teacher to increase quality within their early childhood programs. Apprentices work collaboratively with support to develop professional development plans to fit the needs of today’s workforce

Who Should Apply?

¨ Have you ever dreamed of working with  young children or joining the field of Early Childhood Education and do not know where to start?

¨ Are you a current early childhood professional looking to increase quality in your early childhood program with support in developing skills in the classroom?

¨ Are you looking to further your education with little or no cost to you?

¨ Do you have previous education and experience that you are looking to apply towards your early childhood teacher qualifications?

¨ Are you looking to be a part of a national movement in early care and learning?

¨ Are you looking for increases in compensation as an early childhood professional?

Apprenticeship Candidates must be:

¨ 16 years of age or older

¨ Employed or willing to be employed full time at an early childhood program

¨ Shows a commitment to the quality of care they provide

¨ Willing to make a 2 year commitment

¨ Willing and able to meet all applicable licensing and employer requirements

Benefits of Apprenticeship:

¨ Receive ongoing coaching and support while obtaining skills within your program

¨ Qualify for FREE and low cost training opportunities.

¨ Stipends and information on scholarship opportunities. (when available)

¨ Receive recognition from the Untied States Department of Labor as a Certified Child Care Development Specialist

¨ Become early child hood teacher/ director qualified

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop

and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom

instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. It includes:

· Paid Job - Apprentices are paid employees who produce high-quality work while they learn skills that enhance their employers' needs.

· On-the-Job Learning- Develops skilled workers through structured learning in a work setting.

· Classroom Learning - Improves job-related skills through education in a classroom setting (virtual or in-person).

· Mentorship - Provides apprentices with the support of a skilled worker to assist and enhance critical hands-on learning.

· Credentials - Offers a portable, nationally-recognized credential to be issued at the completion of the program.

How long does it take?

The program is designed to be a 2 year program and can vary based on pervious experience

and education.

Are college courses required?

No, college courses are not required. Recommendations will be made for Related Technical

Instructions based upon the individuals training needs.

What are the benefits for the employer?

· support for teachers in classroom

· assistance to get staff qualified

· staff commitment to the program

· recognition in the community of your participation in federally registered  apprenticeship program

Who is eligible?

· 16 years of age or older

· Employed or willing to be employed full time at an early childhood program

· Shows a commitment to the quality of care they provide

· Willing to make a 2 year commitment

· Willing and able to meet all applicable licensing and employer requirements

How much does it cost?

The cost is free and funding is provided.

Funding Supports Provided for:

• Employers:

O Receive $1000 when an apprentice completes probationary period

o Funds to cover substitute costs to support apprentice training and mentoring time.

• Mentors:

o Funds to cover costs of training to become a qualified mentor. Mentor teacher course at Red Rocks Community College

o $500 stipends provided twice a year for experienced teachers servicing as mentors.

• Apprentices:

o Up to $1500 per semester to cover costs associated with education requirements of the apprenticeship program.

o $500 stipend at the beginning of the program to support upfront costs such as child care, living expenses, and other wraparound supports.

o $500 at the completion of the 6-month probationary period.

If you have any questions, please call 303-914-6584.