The Early Childhood Education program is for students desiring to transfer to a university and obtain a Type 04 Illinois Teaching Certificate, Birth-Grade 3.
The Early Childhood Care and Education program is slightly different and provides the academic background and practical experience necessary to operate a private, home daycare and teach or direct in child care facilities. Additional employment opportunities include nursery schools, Head Start programs, and paraprofessional teacher’s aide in primary grades. The program is especially suited to individuals who enjoy working and teaching young children and to those having a caring and patient personality.
ECACE is offering scholarship opportunities for individuals who are currently employed in childcare settings and wish to complete postsecondary education in the field. Learn more.
These scholarships will cover up to the total cost of attendance after other financial aid is applied, including costs such as tuition and fees, books, supplies, transportation and even childcare.
Priority deadline is July 15! APPLY NOW!
The program will also provide early childhood students with the opportunity to work in a hands-on childcare setting under the supervision of faculty.
One evening class per week will be held at the Kluthe Center for Higher Education & Technology in Effingham to provide flexibility for students who are working or otherwise unavailable during the day.
This classroom will also feature HyFlex technology, which will allow students to connect from work, home or any location convenient for them while receiving a live education experience similar to that which they would receive in person.
Visit the Laker Life Blog to learn about the “Top 5 Reasons to Become a Teacher”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026. The number of students enrolling in public kindergarten and elementary schools is expected to increase over the coming decade, and the number of classes needed to accommodate these students should rise. As a result, more teachers will be needed to teach public kindergarten and elementary school students.
Employment of childcare workers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026. Parents who work will continue to need the assistance of childcare workers. In addition, the demand for preschools and childcare facilities, and consequently childcare workers, should remain strong because early childhood education is widely recognized as important for a child’s intellectual and emotional development.
The Early Childhood Education program is available as an associate of arts degree.
The Early Childhood Care and Education program is available as an associate in applied sciences degree. This program is also considered a Workforce Ready program, so students will be prepared to enter the workforce upon completion.