Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Convert lead CDA to a lead ECE

    Posted 06-09-2021 09:01 PM
    Has anyone converted their  lead CDA certification to a lead ECE? 
    I am wondering if I need to take more college classes or new training in order to avoid having to renew my CDA every three years and what the next step up is?

    Any one know where I can look or contact to get this info? My director said I may have to take two training type classes  like the Pyramid Plus class and one other one..  i have plenty of work hours as I have been teaching for 3 years and a lead for another 3 years. Total of 6 years going on 7.  My director is going to find my and calculate my hours for me but I may be waiting all summer to find out. 

    I am curious to see if there is any other ways since I have my CDA? I think I need just the next step up. I cannot afford college or several classes.  Just want to do the next level up. 

    Thanks for any guidance and help.


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    Jennifer Skinner
    Teacher
    Waterstone Preschool
    Littleton CO
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  • 2.  RE: Convert lead CDA to a lead ECE

    Posted 06-11-2021 08:31 AM
    Hi Jennifer,
    I have never heard of converting a lead CDA to a lead ECE.  The renewal process only requires 45 professional development hours.
    I found this on the CDA portal:
    https://yourcouncil.org/images/My_Images/CFPR/CDA%20Renewal%20Guide.pdf

    I am in PA and we are pushing college credits hard.  All members working in ECE programs 20 hours or more per week can get all of their college paid for.
    Does your program participate in any state initiatives to receive funding for high quality programming?  I googled CO but couldn't find what I was looking for.
    Best of luck,
    Kathy

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    Kathryn Kashner
    Bethlehem PA
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  • 3.  RE: Convert lead CDA to a lead ECE

    Posted 06-13-2021 06:26 PM
    I am in Colorado and was wondering what the next step.up would be from the CDA. My director said I would need to take the Pyramid plus approach to learning and tge equity training.  I already renewed my CDA this year. Thanks for info though.

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    Jennifer Skinner
    Teacher
    Waterstone Preschool
    Littleton CO
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  • 4.  RE: Convert lead CDA to a lead ECE

    Posted 06-11-2021 08:44 AM
    Hi Jennifer,
    If you are interested in taking college classes you should look into the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program in Colorado.  The program supports early childhood educators who are interested in earning their college degree, it's an amazing program.  https://ecclacolorado.org/teachscholarship/

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    Diane Manning
    T.E.A.C.H. NH Counselor
    Child Care Aware of NH
    Nashua NH
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  • 5.  RE: Convert lead CDA to a lead ECE

    Posted 06-11-2021 11:21 PM
    Hi Jennifer, In many states the CDA does meet the requirements for lead teacher certification but each state has their own regulations. I am not familiar with Colorado's regulations but by googling determined that the Colorado Office of Early Childhood is the right government agency. It looks like they issue a qualifications letter that can expire (rather than a license as in other states) and that the letter expires on the date that the CDA expires. The website lists the phone number of the department as 303 866 4091. 
    As a PD specialist I would recommend that you download the free Renewal Procedures Guide from the CDA Council for Professional Recognition website. Renewing your CDA is a different process than the initial application and I think you might find that it is the best way to keep your lead teacher certification.

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    Margery Heyl
    Chicago IL
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