Marion Technical College introduces new associate degree program for early childhood education
The program has been introduced in partnership with TEACH Early Childhood® Ohio and gives students the opportunity to participate in a “learn and earn” model.
Marion Technical College, in partnership with TEACH Early Childhood® Ohio, has introduced a new associate degree program for early childhood education. TEACH is a scholarship program by the Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association that covers 90% of tuition for students, making the path to becoming an early childhood educator more affordable and attainable for a larger number of students.
According to an article on Marion Technical College’s website, Anna Kelley, who serves as the college’s director of Early Childhood Education, was quoted as saying of the program and its benefits, “This program is a game-changer for our region. With the support of TEACH scholarships, we’re removing financial barriers and opening doors for passionate individuals to become qualified early childhood educators. TEACH can be used at every level multiple times to hit their educational goals. So many of our students start with a high school diploma. This gives them many ways to advance their careers.”
The new early childhood education associate degree program has been designed to help individuals who work in childcare centers be able to improve their skills and careers through learning about childhood development. Those who complete the program will be able to earn a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and move on to further early childhood education opportunities, such as pursuing an associate of applied science in early childhood education or a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. The TEACH scholarship is available to be used multiple times, so students can continue getting the benefit as long as they wish to pursue early childhood education.
Chris Angellatta, the CEO at the Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association, said, “This is a ‘learn while you earn’ model. Early childhood teachers are the workforce behind the workforce. Having quality, reliable, abundant teachers benefits working parents, children, and our community. We saw during the COVID-19 pandemic how critical these jobs are. We are thrilled to partner with Marion Technical College to expand access to early childhood education. Through the TEACH Early Childhood® Ohio Scholarship Program, we support over 1,000 educators each year. This partnership helps build a stronger, more skilled workforce and ensures that Ohio’s youngest learners receive the care and education they deserve.”
For more information about Marion Technical College, visit the school’s website.