March 1, 2002

INFORMATION SESSION ON THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE CREDENTIAL PROGRAM AT MOUNT WACHUSETT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

(GARDNER) - An information session on MWCC’s Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential program for early childhood education professionals will be held, Wed., Mar. 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in room 125.

The CDA Credential, a national credential recognized by the Office of Child Care Services, qualifies individuals to be childcare providers. The program takes approximately one year to complete; courses begin Mon., April 22.

Candidates for the program must be 18 years old or older, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, have 480 hours of experience working directly with children within the past five years, and must be currently working directly with children in a classroom or a family child care home (non-teaching supervisors are not eligible for the program).

Program participants will receive professional enhancement, advising, and seven college credits. These credits can be applied to MWCC’s Early Childhood Education degree or certificate, for those who wish to continue their education.

Orientation for the program will be held Mon., Apr. 1 from 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. in room 125. Attendance at orientation is required for all CDA candidates.

Tuition assistance is often available through local Community Partnerships for Children. For more information, call Rosanne Morel, chair and professor of the Early Childhood Education program, at (978) 630-9129.