Careers

Staff Aides are an integral part to programs, and a valuable way to gain entry-level experience working with kids. To be an Aide in a Toddler/Preschool room you must be at least 16 years old, and to be an Aide in an Infant room you must be at least 18 years old. In both cases you must work under the direct supervision of either a Lead Teacher or Director at all times. Depending on which program you work at, you might also be asked to complete some of these Center Staff Trainings before you begin working.

There are a few ways you can meet Assistant Teacher Qualifications, all listed here: Assistant Teacher Qualification Chart. Depending on which center you work at, you might also be asked to complete some of these Center Staff Trainings before you begin working.

A great way to get a feel for the field or a particular program. Call a local program to put your name on the sub list!

There are several different ways to be qualified as a Lead Teacher, see all of them listed here: Lead Teacher Qualification Chart

There are separate qualifications for Large Center Director and Small Center Director (15 or less children in program), see all of them listed here: Large Center Director Qualification Chart | Small Center Director Qualification Chart

As you'll see in the qualification charts above, there are multiple paths to become a Lead Teacher or Director, which one you take will depend on your work and education experience. If you're not sure which pathway is the best fit for you, email Stephanie Milner. Part of her job is to help you decide which route will be the fastest or most affordable for you.

Click on the "Education" tab on the left to see where to find college courses, how to apply for a CDA, and other professional education opportunities, or click the "Professional Development" tab on the left to find resources for required licensing trainings, and PDIS information.

The ECE Credential 3.0 is the professional credential for EC Professionals in Colorado. It assigns you a level 1 - 6 based on your experience, education, and knowledge of Early Childhood Education. Different levels qualify you for different positions in a program (like Assistant Teacher, Lead Teacher, Director, etc.) check out this ECE Credential Level Chart. This credential is not the only way to become qualified for these positions but is a common pathway because it counts an individual's whole work experience, not just their college coursework. To get an idea of what level you would be assigned, fill out this Credential Worksheet.

You can apply for your ECE Credential 3.0 online! If you're comfortable with online systems follow How to Apply Guide to apply. Or, contact Stephanie Milner (info below) who can walk you through the process either over the phone or in-person. An in-person meeting is easiest, and usually takes about 30 minutes to hit the "Apply" button for your credential! To apply you'll need: 1) Copies of any official transcripts showing degrees or courses you've completed; 2) This Experience Documentation Worksheet filled out; 3) Certificates for any trainings you've completed in the last 3 years; and 4) Any accreditations you have earned (like CDA, Coaching Credential, Montessori, etc).

The Professional Development Information System (PDIS) is the statewide web-based system that supports professional development for Colorado’s Early Childhood workforce. All you need in order to register is an email address! Once registered, you can: Take Free Online ECE Trainings, Create your own personal Professional Development Plan, and Apply for your ECE Credential 2.0.