LOCATION:
Education Complex, Celina

CLASS TIMES:
Junior Level - 7:25 to 10:20 A.M.
Senior Level - 11:45 to 2:20 P.M.

CREDITS:
3 Junior Level
3 Senior Level

REQUIREMENTS:
Students must participate in an interview with a Tri Star Representative and it is recommended they have a 5th grade reading and writing level. Also, students accepted into the Early Childhood program are required by law to have a background check and must be fingerprinted.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
This program prepares students for entry-level positions such as Day Care Center Teacher, Preschool Aide, Infant-Toddler Aide/Teacher, or Elementary Teacher’s Aide. Some career opportunities such as Preschool Teacher/Director, Elementary Teacher, Special Needs Teacher, Nanny, Child Care Center Director, Social Service Worker, will require education beyond high school.

Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) students study children of various ages and abilities, how they learn, and how to plan appropriate activities. Students may pursue a two or four - year college degree upon completion of ECDE (or enter the workforce). Students have the opportunity to observe/work at various job sites to gain practical experience in teaching young children. Students work to develop these skill areas:

• Develop and write lesson plans and learning objectives
• Develop and make learning games and toys
• Develop guidance and discipline techniques
• Develop observation and assessment skills
• Encourage play, exploration, and learning
• Provide a safe and healthy environment
• Utilize Ohio Early Learning Content Standards
• Promote physical, intellectual, and social emo-
  tional development appropriate to developmental
  stages
• Identify signs of possible developmental delays
  Attend to infants’ physical needs (e.g., diapering,
  bathing, feeding, and dressing)
• Learn the rules and regulations for compliance
  and licensing and the business operation of a day care center
• Provide inclusion for children with special needs
• Develop relationship with families
• Learn employability skills

Qualifying seniors may participate in early placement the last nine weeks of the school year.