Early Childhood Education I

Grades 9-12

Full year, 1 credit.

This course addresses the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of the child. The program includes instruction in child growth and development, health, nutrition, safety, and guidance. A variety of roles related to early childhood professions will be examined. Students interact with children in the on-campus childcare center and/or early childhood classrooms in CUSD. Students may have the opportunity to participate in a CTSO (Career and Technical Education Student Organization) Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

Early Childhood Education II

Grades 10-12

Full year, 1 credit.

This course will prepare students for employment in a variety of early childhood settings. Students will develop and implement age appropriate learning activities in the on-campus childcare center and/or early childhood classrooms in CUSD. It will also cover the management of effective childcare programs and facilities. Industry certification may be offered in this course. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a CTSO (Career and Technical Education Student Organization) Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

Early Childhood Professions I

Grades 11-12

Full Year, 1 credit.

This course will focus on the application of skills attained in Early Childhood Education 1 & 2 through the on-campus childcare center and/or early childhood classrooms in CUSD. Students will be working towards industry certification: The Child Development Associate Credential and/or Praxis ParaPro Certificate. Students will develop lesson plans, classroom management techniques, and a professional work portfolio. Industry certification may be offered in this course. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a CTSO (Career and Technical Education Student Organization) Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

Early Childhood Professions II

Grade 12

Full Year, 1 credit.

Concurrent enrollment with Early Childhood Professions I available. This course will focus on working towards completing industry certification requirements: The Child Development Associate Credential and/or Praxis ParaPro Certificate. Students will develop employability skills through the on-campus childcare center and/or early childhood classrooms in CUSD such as lesson planning, collaboration, complex communication skills, and professional work portfolio. Industry certification may be offered in this course. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a CTSO (Career and Technical Education Student Organization) Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

In Early Childhood Education, students learn about:

• Child development
• STEM Activities
• Health & Safety
• First Aid/CPR
• Guiding Behavior
• Brain Development
• College & Careers
• Early Literacy & Storytelling
• Lesson planning
• Observation skills
• RealCare Baby Project

¨ Work-based learning experiences through the on-campus childcare center, STEM Preschool, local elementary schools, and Basha Public Library.

*All levels of courses include an internship with the on-campus child care center.

Earn College Credit!

Dual Enrollment is available through Chandler Gilbert Community College! Students can earn up to 9 college credits through the Early Childhood program. Scholarships are available.

Student Leadership Opportunities! 

Participation in leadership development opportunities are available to students in Early Childhood Education II and EC Professions through FCCLA—Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. This Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) includes the following opportunities for students:

¨ Overnight Leadership Camp

¨ Community Projects

¨ State and National Competitions

¨ Leadership Training Opportunities, conferences, workshops and more!