ECD 101 moves to hybrid format, scholarships available

Sumter, SC (07/22/2020) — The need for quality childcare in South Carolina is an ongoing concern throughout the state. Central Carolina Technical College offers an introductory course to Early Childhood Education (ECD 101) which provides an overview of developmentally appropriate teaching approaches and licensing standards in early care and education.

ECD 101 is valuable for those interested in working in childcare and for those who are already employed in the field. Successful completion of ECD 101 enables students to earn the South Carolina Early Childhood Credential awarded through SC Endeavors, a division of the Department of Social Services (DSS). This credential meets a DSS Childcare Licensing requirement for all childcare workers in the state.

For the first time this fall semester, CCTC will offer ECD 101 as a hybrid course. The hybrid format combines online coursework and Zoom synchronous learning and allows students to take the course without having to physically come to campus. The transition to hybrid benefits childcare workers who have not been able to enroll previously because of their work schedule.

Current childcare workers who are interested in taking this course may be eligible for the Teacher Education and Compensation Helps (TEACH) Scholarship which funds course fees. Upon successful completion of the course, participants may also be eligible for a monetary bonus sponsored by SC Endeavors.

After completing ECD 101, childcare workers can continue their education at CCTC and may be eligible for TEACH Scholarships, additional South Carolina credentials and monetary bonuses which are intended to improve the quality of childcare statewide. Students who successfully complete this course prior to employment in childcare improve their chances of obtaining a job, having already met the training requirement prospective employers are looking for.

"Early Childhood Educators who have earned the SC Early Childhood Credential by completing ECD 101 have demonstrated that they are professionals in the field who care about providing high-quality care for young children. We hope that by offering ECD 101 using remote instruction along with the availability of TEACH scholarships, it will be possible for everyone who works with children in our four counties to take this course and know that they are professionals providing a vital service to children and families," says Leslie Williams, CCTC department chair for Early Care and Education.

For more information regarding ECD 101 or the Early Care and Education Program, contact Department Chair Leslie Williams at 803-778-7818 or williamsld@cctech.edu.

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