What a great discussion from this supportive community!
I wanted to make sure everyone knew how to find the list of NAEYC-accredited early childhood higher education degree programs (which includes a note about which ones are available online):
https://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/higher-ed/accredited-programsKeep us posted, Gloria, on your educational journey--so glad that NAEYC can help to welcome you into the profession!
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Pamela Ehrenberg
Director of Accreditation Services, NAEYC Higher Education
(and proud NAEYC member!)
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-29-2019 12:35 PM
From: GLORIA HAMILTON
Subject: Need educational guidance through others experiences
Great advice! Thank you so much for the information! I will check into this!
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GLORIA HAMILTON
Clarkston MI
Original Message:
Sent: 10-29-2019 08:43 AM
From: Teri Smith
Subject: Need educational guidance through others experiences
Most communities have community colleges and they offer associates degrees in early childhood. Our state, I'm in NC, have articulation agreements with many 4 year schools so that if you do have a two year degree it will only take you 2 more years and they will accept all course work done at the CC. Many community college classes in this day and age offer classes online, or at least a hybrid, where you may go one night a week and do the rest online. I actually taught a hybrid class at a community college and it was great because you had contact with other people in the field but only had to be in class for a limited time. Good luck. Our state also offers scholarships to return to school. Check with your state. Across the country there is a shortage of good passionate teachers. I hope you keep your love of Early childhood. It's an awesome place to be.
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Teri Smith
Director
St. James Episcopal School
Hendersonvlle NC
Original Message:
Sent: 10-27-2019 03:44 PM
From: GLORIA HAMILTON
Subject: Need educational guidance through others experiences
Hello!
I am looking for some educational guidance. First, some background. I am not a typical student. I am an adult interested in a change of career. I originally went to school for diagnostic medical sonography so I don't have many things that could transfer into an educational degree. I live in Michigan and am currently working at my kid's school in the kitchen. This was originally what fueled my passion for becoming an educator! Hanging out with those children is my life. But I don't know how to begin to reach my goal of wanting to become an early childhood educator. I would love to go to school online to earn a Bachelor's in ECE, but I am coming up short with good quality programs. So my question is: is going to a brick and mortar school my only option with my background? Is there any other way to get into and learn about ECE field without going to school? Just need some guidance from people who have been there/done that. Thank you all for your time!
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GLORIA HAMILTON
Clarkston MI
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