The following programs prepare students for careers that help individuals and families in crisis or who work to prevent a crisis from occurring. The programs below are designed for students who enjoy working with others and who want to make a direct impact on their lives. As awareness grows about the importance of a child s early years to his or her adult development, more of society s resources are supporting services for children and families. The program is for students entering the job market for the first time, changing careers, or seeking to strengthen their professional skills as educators. A major focus of the program is learning how to support the growth and development of young children and work effectively with their parents.
Students practice their teaching skills and strategies through course work and internships.
Career possibilities for those who enjoy working with children and their families include preschool teachers, childcare providers, recreation leaders, and special education assistants, among other jobs. Courses are also available to Associate of Arts and Sciences students planning to pursue a Washington State teaching certificate at a four-year university. The Institute for Early Childhood Career Development offers seminars on professional issues impacting the field, such as budget planning and parent relations. The Institute seeks to meet the growing needs of early childhood professionals throughout the community. Seminars are planned especially for working professionals who seek new information and ideas about their profession, but have limited time.