LUME Early Childhood

Summary

The LUME Institute at University City Children’s Center, in partnership with SLATE, has developed a new Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship program to teach children from birth to kindergarten.

The program will link unemployed individuals interested in teaching careers with quality training and an opportunity to earn wages while they learn. 

The Apprenticeship will begin with 135 hours (5 weeks) of early childhood teacher training with participants hired as an Early Childhood Worker at a rate of $9.50 per hour. 

This is followed by 480 hours of on-the-job training after which participants will receive a Child Development Associate credential, and can be promoted to an Assistant Teacher position earning at least $10.50 per hour.

After another 1.5 years of continuous work/training experience, apprentices will receive the Department of Labor certification as a Childhood Development Associate, resulting in wages of $13 per hour. Additionally, nine hours in college credits are earned and could be applied towards obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree.

SLATE will provide financial support for apprenticeship training. Participants will be trained by LUME Institute, a recognized leader in providing training and support services to early childhood educators, early childhood centers, and their families. 

Program Benefits

• Classroom professional development and observation (5 weeks/135 hours); 
• Placement at a licensed and/or accredited Early Childhood Center; 
• On-the-Job Training with local employers providing progressive salaries starting at $9.50 with potential to reach $13.00; 
• CDA application assistance and support; 
• Opportunity to work toward a Department of Labor Apprenticeship Certification (after 4,000 hours/2 years total). 

Requirements

• GED/High School Diploma; 
• Age 18 years or older; 
• Able to pass background check with finger printing and drug screening; 
• WorkKeys Assessment: Reading-4, Math-3 and Locating Information-4;

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