Pre-Apprenticeship FAQs

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed as a no-cost opportunity for high school and Career and Technical Education (CTE) students. Its primary goal is to support students in advancing their education and pursuing a career in early childhood education.

Through this program, students can receive assistance in scheduling, studying, and applying for funding to cover the cost of the Child Development Associate (CDA) exam. This financial support helps remove barriers, making it easier for participants to achieve their credential and take the next step toward their professional career.

Additionally, the ECE Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides pathways to employment within the early childhood education sector. By participating, students can gain access to job opportunities, helping them build a foundation for a rewarding career in childcare and advance their educational career.

Your high school and CTE programs are unique; we provide tailored support to help you succeed. The connections and support you will receive throughout your high school experience prepare you for success in the professional world. Upon successful completion of the Early Childhood Education Pre-Apprenticeship Program, every Pre-Apprentice is guaranteed an interview with the Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program. This interview provides an opportunity to discuss the next steps in their professional journey and explore potential career options within the field.

Additionally, graduates of the program will have access to entry-level positions in the childcare industry. Throughout high school, they will remain connected to job outreach events and receive up-to-date information about employment and higher education opportunities, helping them make informed decisions and transition smoothly into the workforce.

The Pre-Apprenticeship Program includes:

• A connection to existing apprenticeship programs
• State-approved training & with nationally recognized competencies for careers in childcare
• Hands-on quality learning with a career focus
• The opportunity to earn a recognized credential that gives you a jump-start in your career
• Higher education opportunities
• Access to support & career counseling at all times.

The Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides support to high schools with an early childhood focus, offering the opportunity to build the work-readiness skills that childcare employers like to see. Additionally, this work opens the door to other higher education opportunities and the support needed to help succeed. Pre-apprentices will qualify for and gain advanced standing with partnered apprenticeship programs.

Due to past funding support, this program has provided CDA workbooks/testing and exam scheduling and support, technology, PENNAEYC memberships, scholarships for concurrent enrollment, and childcare employment connections.

This program is free to our partner high school students. Please contact Michelle Harkins mharkins@earlyconnectionserie.org for more information.