The Teacher Academy for Early Childhood Education
Overview
The Teacher Academy for Early Childhood Education teaches students how to care for and teach young children. Students learn how to help children grow socially, emotionally, physically, and mentally. This program is also a good starting point for college programs in teaching, therapy, social work, or nursing.
Students may work with children from birth to second grade in places like daycares, preschools, and schools. They learn about safety rules, how kids grow and learn, how to set up classrooms, and how to plan lessons. The program also teaches communication skills, how to manage a classroom, and how to act professionally.
Students get hands-on experience by working with real children in a preschool at school. As more families need early learning programs, job opportunities in this field continue to grow. Students can earn the Child Development Associate® (CDA) credential, which is known across the country. They may also earn college credit through partnerships with local colleges.
What You’ll Learn
- How to help children grow and learn in all areas
- Safety and rules in child care
- How to set up a good learning space
- How children grow and develop
- Child behavior and basic psychology
- Lesson planning and classroom activities
- Communication and classroom management
- Professional skills for working with children
Hands-On Experience
Students work in a real preschool classroom at school. They care for children, help teach lessons, and learn how to manage a group. This helps them get ready for future jobs or college.
Certification
- Infant, Toddler, & Adult CPR/First Aid
- Early Learning Foundation Certificate
- Training in Early Care & Education I & II
- Intern Certificate: Early Childhood and School Age Care
- Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
Employment Opportunities
Jobs available during senior year or right after high school:
- Before/after-school counselor
- Summer camp counselor
- Assistant or aide in a child care center
- Home child care provider
- Child advocate
- Paraeducator
Jobs that may need 2–4 years of college:
- Preschool or elementary teacher
- Special education teacher
- Child care center director
- Social worker
- Other careers working with children and families
Earning Potential Range:
Students in this field can earn around $39,000 per year, with higher pay possible after earning a two- or four-year college degree.
Locations
| School | Location | Instructor |
|---|---|---|
 |
HODGSON VOTECH HIGH SCHOOL | Ms. Lynette Boub |
 |
HOWARD HIGH SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY | Ms. Megan Ellingsworth |
 |
ST. GEORGES TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL | Ms. Nicole Bowe |
*The Teacher Academy program offered at Howard High School of Technology includes both Early Childhood and K-12 education tracks.