Early Childhood Education Students Earn CDA Certification

Area 31 Career Center is proud to recognize the accomplishments of ten second-year students in the Early Childhood Education program who have earned their Child Development Associate (CDA) certification. This nationally recognized credential marks a major milestone in their path toward careers in early childhood education.

To earn the CDA certification, students completed four Ivy Tech Community College courses and dedicated themselves to hands-on learning experiences. They completed 120 hours of training in Area 31’s on-site learning centers in their first year, gaining essential foundational skills. In their second year, students participated in 480 hours of work-based learning (WBL) at local Early Childhood Learning Centers, applying their knowledge in real-world classroom settings.

This rigorous combination of academic coursework and field experience has prepared these students to enter the workforce immediately as Lead Preschool Teachers. In addition, the Ivy Tech dual credit courses give them a strong head start toward earning an associate degree in Early Childhood Education, should they choose to continue their education.

Area 31 congratulates these students on their commitment, hard work, and dedication to early childhood education. Their success reflects the strength of the program and the valuable partnerships with Ivy Tech and local learning centers.