Early Childhood Education is a two year program for students in 11th and 12th grade. Students earn three high school credits first year and four high school credits the second year. Students prepare to be primary providers of home-, family-, or institution-based childcare services by focusing on the planning, organizing, and conducting of meaningful play and learning activities; child monitoring and supervision; recordkeeping and referral procedures; and work-based learning experiences in local daycare centers, and PreK and K- classrooms under supervision. Students also prepare for continuing education leading to careers in early childhood fields (e.g., medical, social services, education).
The course will be part classroom, part work-based learning. Students will be placed in daycare centers or preschool classrooms and will conduct observations, job shadow, and generally provide assistance to the lead teacher.
Students will take Early Childhood Education II in their 12th grade year.
Students may complete the requirements towards a CDA credential (Child Development Associate).