- Berks Career and Technology Center
- SERVICES CLUSTER
Early Childhood Education
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Instructor TBD | East Campus | Instructor Karla Gibson | West Campus | CID Code 19.0708
The Early Childhood Education program is designed to train and prepare students for employment in the early learning field and provides the foundation for study in higher education. Students in this program gain daily practical experience in the on-site child care school.
Students study all phases of child development: physical, social, emotional and intellectual. The curriculum focuses on the following topics: establishing and maintaining a safe, healthy learning environment; advancing physical and intellectual competence; supporting social and emotional development and providing positive guidance; establishing positive and productive relationships with families; ensuring a well-run, purposeful program responsive to children’s needs; and maintaining professionalism. Each student works independently with a combination of learning strategies used to enhance the student’s growth.
Graduates of this program are well prepared for a variety of careers working with children including employment in day care centers, nursery schools, elementary schools, Head Start classes, playgrounds, recreation centers and early childhood education centers. A student graduating in this program can qualify as an assistant group supervisor in child day care centers throughout Pennsylvania.
Through agreements with various area colleges and universities, our graduates may qualify for advanced credit in early childhood education programs.
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Industry Certifications:
Child Development Associate (CDA)-Ready Certificate
First Aid
Infant and Child CPR
Mandated Reporting Certification
OSHA/CareerSafe 10-Hour CertificationCollege Advanced Credits:
Berks Technical Institute - Up to 50 quarter credits
Harrisburg Area Community College - Harrisburg - Up to 9 credits
Pennsylvania College of Technology - Up to 3 credits
Reading Area Community College - Up to 9 credits (Depending on RACC Course of Study)Program Requirements/Costs
There are specific costs for textbooks, tools, supplies, uniforms, certifications; and for some programs, medical and criminal clearances that students are obligated to pay upon acceptance. These costs change annually.
Program Entrance Recommendations:
ο Emotional Maturity - Students will be working directly with preschool age children and must demonstrate respect and self control at all times.
o Reading at grade level
o Algebra I or Geometry
o Problem-solving/ troubleshooting skills
o Ability to work independently and in a team
o Hand-eye coordination
o Artistic ability/creativity
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TEACHER ACADEMY - Early Chilhood Education
Courses at CTC
Level 1 Sophomore
ECE-105 EC Professional (enroll in spring) – 3 Credits
ECE-140 Health, Safety & PE (enroll in spring) – 3 CreditsLevel 2 Junior
ECE-125 Intro to ECE (enroll in spring) – 3 Credits
ECE-115 Integrated Arts (enroll in spring) – 3 CreditsRACC Capstone Year Senior
ECE-120 Observation & Assessment (on campus or online) – 3 Credits
MAT-150 Found of Math (on campus, spring) – 3 Credits
ENG-125 Intro to Literature (enroll at sending school) – 3 Credits
IFT-110 Micro Comp Apps (on campus or online, fall) – 3 Credits
Career Pathways:
Preschool Teacher (except Special Education)
Child Care Worker
Elementary Teacher Preparation
Teacher’s Assistant
Assistant Group Supervisor
Personal & Home Care Aide
Recreation WorkerCAREER PATHWAYS CAN LEAD TO:*
Education Administrator – Preschool & Childcare Center Program
Elementary School Teacher*Requires post-secondary training.