This is an exciting two-year course for students interested in careers which involve working with children. The program focuses on the study of child development, the preparation of early childhood learning activities and career investigation. Students will learn how to write and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans and prepare a professional portfolio. Students will gain hands-on experience through working in the on-site preschool classroom for children ages 3-5 years old. Students will develop skills in guidance techniques, teaching language arts and math, artistic expression and planning activities. Second-year students in the program may be eligible to intern at a childcare center or elementary school to further develop their employment skills and knowledge. After finishing the program, students will receive a certificate of completion and have earned 1080 hours of preschool instruction and experience. Students are also eligible to be considered for the Future Teachers scholarship which awards the winner a teaching contract with VBCPS upon completion of a 4-year degree.
Virginia Beach City Public Schools ensures equal access to all CTE courses. Accessibility accommodations will be provided as needed.
Certification
National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Assessment-Early Childhood Education; and the Child Development Associate (CDA)