Education and Training

Child Care Apprenticeship Program

Recruitment and retention of quality staff is an area of concern for child care centers. In South Dakota, turnover in some centers is as high as 60 percent annually.

The South Dakota Child Care Apprenticeship Program reduces staff turnover in child care centers and increases the supply of well-trained child care workers. The goal is to help stabilize the child care workforce and improve the quality of care children receive. The program is an affordable option for classroom instruction and on-the-job training to prepare people to work effectively with young children. As part of the program, child care apprentices must complete 4,000 hours of on-the-job work experience with child care centers and 300 hours of classroom coursework. Individuals who complete the program will receive a nationally-recognized Child Development Certificate. This training can also count toward a two- or four-year degree.

Apprenticeship Training

The first year of the program is 150 hours of training based on the South Dakota Child Development Associate (CDA) training curriculum and apprenticeship supplemental training. The training includes in-person classroom and distance education training methods.

The second year of the program is 150 hours of distance learning including Dakota Digital Network (DDN) classes and Internet options. The courses are offered through tribal and state colleges and universities. Agreements are being developed so courses taken through the program will transfer to participating colleges and universities throughout South Dakota. Barriers to accessing this education are eliminated through a flexible and cost-effective delivery of training.

Candidates for Training

Those individuals currently working in an early childhood program, who are committed to their work, eager to take coursework and who desire the knowledge and skills necessary to met the needs of children should consider this program. The apprentice's employer must also become a Registered Apprenticeship Site by agreeing to meet the standards set by the Child Care Apprenticeship Program.

Employer Benefits

The Child Care Apprenticeship Program can provide benefits for employers, they include:

• Decrease employee turnover.
  
• Enhance problem-solving skills and versatility of the work- force.
  
• Improve employee relations by developing a collaborative commitment to achievement.
  
• Attract high-quality applicants who are motivated to succeed.
  
• Provide national and state recognition.