Early Childhood Education

Program Objective

To strengthen families and empower individuals to take action for the well-being of self and others in the home, workplace, community and world.

Program Content

Students must complete a core curriculum which includes:

• Child growth and development
• Maintaining a safe, clean, and healthy environment
• Implementation of age appropriate activities
• Child abuse
• Curriculum for children
• Infant/toddler care
• Guiding behavior
• Health and safety regulations
• Nutrition and food service
• Employability and leadership skills
• Balancing family, school, and work

Admission Requirements

• 16 years of age or older and not currently enrolled in any K-12 program
• Occupational Interest
• High School Diploma/GED from an Accredited High School
• Create update profile information on Focus
• Must pass DCF Background check
• No specific requirement for Information Technology

Program Hours

• Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Completion Requirements

The entire program is 600 hours, but students can earn a certificate at the completion of the following OCPs:

OCP A – Child Care Worker I:          150 hours

OCP B – Child Care Worker 2:         150 hours

OCP C – Teacher Aide (Preschool): 150 hours

OCP D – Preschool Teacher:            150 hours

Minimum basic-skills grade levels required for awarding a Full Program Completion Certificate are 9th grade in Math, Reading, and Language on the TABE® test, or Industry Certification. Additional information can be provided by student services

Students are expected to complete program competencies.

• DCF 30-hour Child Care Worker Certification (5 DCF Test Certificates)
• DCF 10-hour Pre-School Certification (2 DCF Certificates)
• DCF 5-hour Early Literacy Program
• Adult and Pediatric CPR
• To receive the National CDA/(Child Development Associate) the student must contact the CDA program at: cdacouncil.org to schedule the test, visit, and fee charge.

Employment Requirements

National Child Development assist from a Technical College on Post-Secondary program. Department of Children and Family certificate.

Employment Opportunities

• Childcare Worker
• Teacher Aide (Preschool)
• Preschool Teacher
• VPK Teacher

Salary

The average wage for this career in Florida is $15.16 hourly or $31,530 annually.

Program Cost

• In-state residents – $2.56 per hour (Subject to change)
• Out of state resident – $10.25 per hour (subject to change)
• $15.00 application fee per trimester
• Material fee – Varies by program
• Identification fee – $5.00 per trimester
• Liability insurance fee – Varies by program
• Students must purchase books/kits and or uniforms, if applicable.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Applicants must have a high school diploma from an accredited High School, or its equivalent. To apply, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, at www.fafsa.gov. Questions pertaining to this matter should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.

RMEC & TC adheres to a policy of non-discrimination and strives to provide equal opportunity to all potential students.