The Early Childhood Teacher Education program is a program in which high school students prepare for careers in child–related occupations, earning high school honors credits and/or Dual Enrollment college credits. Career possibilities may include teaching, child psychology, social work, and day–care ownership. The program prepares students for post–secondary education or immediate entry into the Palm Beach County workforce. Students gain teaching experiences through internships at area preschools and elementary schools. Early Childhood Teacher Education programs provide students with teaching experiences in the laboratory preschools located on high school campuses with the exception of Atlantic High and Boca Raton High. All students applying to these programs listed below must meet the following eligibility criteria: 2.5 GPA. Background checks will be conducted on applicants. Students wishing to Dual Enroll must meet dual enrollment eligibility.

During the 4 year program, students will work to obtain the Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) from the State of Florida, which allows students upon completion to gain professional employment with children from birth to eight years of age. The Academy provides hands-on experience working with young children in the Little Panthers preschool.

Curriculum

Students complete a 600 hour program to prepare for a position of “Child Care Educator” through completion of Early Childhood Education 1 and 2 and Early Childhood Education 3 and 4 Honors.

• Career Field Trips
• Educational Portfolio and Professional Resource File
• Career field trips to actual classrooms
• Junior Achievement
• Completion of Department of Children and Families Childcare Training Manual
• Junior and Senior year internships in local preschools and Elementary Schools

Special Features

Career shadowing instills the importance of professional attire, provides in school setting and encourages positive professional attitudes and work habits.

Participation in Florida Future Educators of America (FFEA) is encouraged to allow students to gain leadership skills. The FFEA scholarship Program was implemented to assist the district “grow its own teachers”. Qualified High School Seniors are eligible to apply. This is a wonderful opportunity to earn free money for college.

Certifications

During the four year program, students will work to obtain the Early Childhood Professional Certificate from the State of Florida as well as the Child Development Associate (CDA) which is recognized nationally.

To meet the requirements for these certification, a student must:

• Obtain 480 hours of direct work experience with children eight years and younger in an adult-supervised environment
• 120 hours of classroom instruction
• Create and maintain a professional resource file and portfolio
• Complete the mandated DCF Child Care Training Manual
• Pass competency exams on each of the 7 DCF Training modules

The CDA allows students upon completion to gain professional employment nationwide.

Early Childhood Teacher Education Academy Open House presentation

Click here to view our Choice Open House Early Childhood Teacher Education presentation