Child Care Services Association is currently working with local and state partners to develop apprenticeship programs to support early childhood educators in Durham pursuing an Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree. 

How can an apprenticeship program support me in my early childhood career? 

• For educators seeking an Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree in early childhood: Become an apprentice to pursue a degree at no cost while working in a child care center – receiving better pay, completion bonuses, supportive stipends, structured on-the-job learning, and professional mentorship all along the way to your degree! Open to current educators and new professionals not yet serving in a classroom!
• For experienced educators who already have a Bachelor’s degree and/or your Birth-Kindergarten license: Become a mentor to further develop your leadership skills, receive free professional development, and earn a stipend for each semester you serve as a mentor.

Calling all employers: Partner with apprenticeship programs to strengthen pathways for development and retention for your current teachers; support new teachers with structured on the job learning and meaningful advancement; and benefit from 50% salary matching for wages paid to Associate level apprentices.

Join the Durham Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship Program as an apprentice, as a mentor, or as an employer! We are still finalizing program design, but ready to begin connecting with you to explore possibilities and design this program to best meet our community’s aspirations. Complete this interest form and our team will follow up with more information and next steps.