Early Childhood Education

Children learn from the world around them. The Early Childhood Education program at Career & Tech's Albany campus is designed for students interested in teaching at the preschool or elementary level and making a difference in the lives of youngsters. In this program, students learn all aspects of the early childhood field and put theory into practice by working with children in a variety of child care settings.

Early Childhood Education students learn about child development, family psychology, instructional theory and techniques, applied academics and career opportunities. They may test for Early Childhood career and technical endorsement to their Regents diploma through the national NOCTI exam.

The two-year Early Childhood Education program prepares students for a position in the early childhood field or for advanced study at college.

Career Opportunities:
Head Start assistant teacher
Child care assistant teacher
Family child care provider
Nursery school assistant teacher
Elementary school aide K-2
Special needs aide
After-school aide
With further education:
  Preschool teacher
  Elementary school teacher
  Special education teacher
  Child care director

Units of Study:
Introduction to early childhood programs
Child growth and development
Creative activities
Guidance and discipline
Program management
Parent/teacher/community involvement
Guiding children with special needs
Health/safety/sanitation
Curriculum development
Nutrition
Observations of young children
Integrated English (2nd year students or seniors)

College Articulation:
Hudson Valley Community College
Schenectady County Community College
SUNY Cobleskill

Portfolio:
Seniors create a portfolio which they present to teachers, administrators, peers and/or industry professionals. The portfolio includes employability information and exemplary work in technical and communication skills that students have created and developed over the course of the year.

Academic Prerequisites:
Child Development
Skills in English and math
Computer skills

Professional Requirements:
Uniform shirt for field work
Workbook and assorted teacher supplies

Post-Secondary Education:
Students are prepared to pursue further education such as a 2-year or a 4-year degree in early childhood education or a 4-year degree in elementary education.

College Articulation Agreements:
Hudson Valley Community College
Schenectady County Community College
SUNY Cobleskill

Application:
Students interested in Early Childhood Education are requested to complete and mail back an application. Click below:
Early Childhood Education application

Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view/print the application.

Read more about it:
This teacher won’t leave the classroom: Most people can’t wait to be done with school, but not Kimberly Bushey.

Teacher profile:
Cindy Jennings

LINK TO CHILDREN & EDUCATION CAREER ACADEMY

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