Early Childhood Education Internship Class

Three years ago, the Early Childhood Education Internship program began as a partnership between Child Learning and Care Center and Interagency Academy Career Choices Internship Class. This internship class has become a model for an ECE apprenticeship program which OSPI is developing for high school students in Washington State.

During the ECE internship class the students complete Washington State STARS certification, a HIV awareness program, certification in 1st aid / CPR, and get their King County Food Workers Card; all are required trainings and certifications for Early Childhood Education Workers in a Licensed Child Care Center, Family Home Child Care or a Pre School Program in Washington State.

Along with completing the required certifications, the students gain valuable experience working in an early childhood program at Child Learning and Care Center, a Washington State Licensed Child Care Program. The program is certified by the City of Seattle Human Services Dept. and is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The interns all received experience working with children ages 15 months through 5 years of age.

Our first year intern, Mary, has been employed at the center since completing her internship in June of 2007. As an employee, Mary received over $10.00 per hour, has paid sick, vacation and holidays. When Mary has completed her high school requirements, she will have a full time position with the childcare center that will pay her medical, dental and vision insurance. She will also have the opportunity to attend a community college in Washington State and have tuition paid through a program with the City of Seattle and our center. The program covers tuition while she earns her Child Development Certificate (a national program for Early Childhood Teachers) or her AA in Early Childhood Education. This year, three Interagency Academy students completed their 90 hour internships, earning .5 credits for high school and will continue working toward their Early Childhood Development AA degree at the local community colleges.

Interviews with Michele Sorenson and Dyondra Glasby

Click HERE to check out the Early Childhood Education March 2009 News