There are several reasons why the CDA® credential is essential to people in early childhood education.
First, it’s the most widely recognized credential in our field and an important step for teachers who want to pursue both personal and professional growth. Earning a CDA establishes a foundation for delivering high-quality care to young children and demonstrates that you possess the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively with children, families and colleagues.
Second, many states and accrediting bodies require teachers to have their CDA to hold certain positions. If you aspire to advance in your career, you can’t ignore the credential’s importance.
Third, earning your CDA makes you more marketable in the early childhood workplace. The CDA demonstrates quality, and schools and centers use that to draw in more families. Increasing enrollment improves the bottom line—which can translate into higher wages for you.
The benefits of earning your CDA remain the same, regardless of how you complete the process. Still, NOT all CDA coursework providers are the same. Finding the right fit is important, just like it is for any professional development or training.
For starters, it’s best to seek out a CDA Gold Standard℠ certified provider. That way, you know you’re receiving the highest-quality training and will be prepared for the CDA exam.
The Council for Professional Recognition has done a great job evaluating its Gold Standard providers to ensure their coursework meets all the criteria to get CDA candidates ready come exam time. Preparing for the CDA is a serious venture, and you want to ensure you’re investing your time wisely. So, find a provider that’s going to help you.
Next, you want to make sure your provider gives you the flexibility you need to complete the coursework. Working professionals are likely stretched thin already, so it’s best to find a provider that will accommodate your schedule.
Finally, seek out a provider that gives you access to one-on-one assistance. Education coaches and other personal supports provide many pluses that will encourage you and lead to a more promising experience overall.
If you’re ready to begin your CDA journey, ChildCare Education Institute’s (CCEI) certification might be the right one for you. As a CDA Gold Standard Comprehensive provider, CCEI has a proven high-quality online program and is prepared to meet your needs.
So what are you waiting for? Click HERE to learn more and get started today!
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Chief Operations Officer
Andrew Davis serves as Chief Operating Officer at the Council. In this role, Andrew oversees the Programs Division, which includes the following operational functions: credentialing, growth and business development, marketing and communications, public policy and advocacy, research, innovation, and customer relations.
Andrew has over 20 years of experience in the early care and education field. Most recently, Andrew served as Senior Vice President of Partnership and Engagement with Acelero Learning and Shine Early Learning, where he led the expansion of state and community-based partnerships to produce more equitable systems of service delivery, improved programmatic quality, and greater outcomes for communities, children and families. Prior to that, he served as Director of Early Learning at Follett School Solutions.
Andrew earned his MBA from the University of Baltimore and Towson University and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland – University College.
Chief Financial Officer
Jan Bigelow serves as Chief Financial Officer at the Council and has been with the organization since February of 2022.
Jan has more than 30 years in accounting and finance experience, including public accounting, for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. She has held management-level positions with BDO Seidman, Kiplinger Washington Editors, Pew Center for Global Climate Change, Communities In Schools, B’nai B’rith Youth Organization and American Humane. Since 2003, Jan has worked exclusively in the non-profit sector where she has been a passionate advocate in improving business operations in order to further the mission of her employers.
Jan holds a CPA from the State of Virginia and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lycoming College. She resides in Alexandria VA with her husband and dog.
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