Earning their Child Development Associate National Credentials were, from left, Wendy Sherburne, Missy Ullman, Tracy Paro and Christina Binguis. Photo courtesy of Annie Hess
Four Early Childhood staff from Grand Portage participated in the Child Development Associate National Credentialing Program. The four individuals were involved in a fast track CDA Cohort that stretched over a period of three months. The Grand Portage Head Start Program with expertise in early childhood teacher preparation was designated the training agency that facilitated the course.
The CDA National Credentialing Program is a professional development opportunity for early educators working with children ages birth to 5 years old to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the early childhood education field. The CDA credentialing program assesses candidates using multiple sources evidence, including an exam, observation and professional portfolio with resources and competency statements prepared by the candidate.
The early childhood education field is continually evolving, and it is essential for educators to stay current with key education practices. Candidates must complete 120 hours of formal early childhood education training, covering the growth and development of children ags birth to 5 years, with no fewer than 10 training hours in each of the eight CDA subject areas.
Candidates must take an exam and must be observed and evaluated by a professional development specialist prior to being awarded the credential from the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C.
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