Building the Future of Early Childhood Education: LCCC’s CDA Practicum
Earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is often out of reach for early childhood educators who work long hours for low pay. Lehigh Carbon Community College’s CDA Practicum is changing the game and the landscape by making certification more accessible, supportive, and transformative. Early Childhood Education is just as critical as K-12 education, and LCCC participants are helping build a stronger foundation for generations to come.
In 2017–2018, there was a statewide push for early childhood professionals to earn formal qualifications. Recognizing the need to support working participants, a pilot program emerged in Philadelphia. LCCC’s CDA Practicum, coordinated by Megan Strella, is our version of an apprenticeship for early learning professionals.
Unlike traditional paths, which often require independent study with little guidance, our practicum provides structured support that significantly improves completion rates. Cohorts include both newcomers and lifelong professionals, some without degrees who need credentials to advance, others changing careers and seeking formal training.
Our participants reflect the diversity of the community, including Spanish speakers, low-income parents, seasoned educators, and beginners. The program is flexible and customizable, ensuring all participants can succeed. Employers can even sponsor cohorts, including organizations like Head Start and Early Head Start.
The program consists of three classes, online work, and weekly instructor-led discussions. Participants earn half their credits through workplace competencies, supervised by a coach. By program’s end, participants meet all associate degree requirements, complete their CDA portfolio, and receive a $1,000 teaching kit with essential classroom materials.
While participants initially face challenges such as feeling academically inadequate, our supportive model helps them gain confidence quickly. Since its launch in 2021 with six apprentices, the CDA Practicum now serves 45 to 60 participants annually, with a waitlist of 30 for the fall. Many graduates are inspired to pursue associate degrees, creating a new pathway to professional growth.
“There needs to be a shift and focus on early childhood education. This kind of program shouldn’t be hard to find; this shouldn’t be the anomaly. Opportunities like this should be the standard,” says Strella.
Since its inception, the Early Childhood Education Registered Apprenticeship pathway has expanded across Pennsylvania. Earning a CDA credential can lead to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and open doors to higher wages, career opportunities, and advancement.
Interested in building a brighter future for generations to come? Learn more about the CDA Practicum at CareerLink by visiting LCCC’s website.
