Caregivers receive CDA Credential

The National Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition recently awarded the Child Development Associate Credential to nine early childhood caregivers in the region.

A CDA Credential is a nationally recognized early childhood professional credential awarded by the National Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition. A CDA credential is portable from state to state and is a recognized hiring qualification for many early childhood positions, including center director in North Dakota.

To earn the CDA credential a person must successfully complete the national assessment process. This assessment determines a candidate’s demonstrated ability to meet the specific needs of young children (ages 0-5) and their families and to work with other adults in a professional capacity. Candidates must complete 120 hours of formal training in a setting approved by the National Council, document 480 hours of direct work experience with children in a state approved, licensed child care facility, work with a qualified early childhood adviser to complete the national CDA assessment observation, survey parents in their care, and compile a professional resource file in compliance with the national CDA requirements. They must also take a written and oral exam administered by a representative of the council.

The National Council reviews all information and makes an award determination. Regional candidates participated in the Growing Child Care Initiative through Child Care Resource and Referral. The nine candidates who have received their CDA Credential are:

Hope: Jessica Jordan

Jamestown: Julie Braun, Kari Kapp, Bonnie Mielke, Judy Sundeen, Judy Vilhauer and Melissa Poland

New Rockford: Nathan Presnell

Valley City: Cindy Nickerson.

Child Care Resource and Referral has CDA scholarships available to providers who work in licensed child care programs serving children 0-5 years of age. Applications are accepted on a first come, first-served basis. For more information on requirements and how to apply contact: Sonya Fischer at 800-452-3646 X7029 or sonyaf@lakesandprairies.net

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