Early Learning Educator Credential Program
The Crisis
Ohio is currently facing a critical shortage in the Education and Training career cluster. According to OhioMeansJobs, several key roles are now designated as “Critical” or “In-Demand,” yet the talent pipeline remains thin:
Preschool Teachers: 19th on Ohio’s Top Jobs list with a critical need for growth.
Teaching Assistants: 12th on Ohio’s Top Jobs list with hundreds of annual openings.
Kindergarten & Elementary Teachers: High-priority roles with median salaries reaching $64,000 – $71,000.
The Solution
To bridge this gap, our STEM Early Learning Educator program requires students to actively engage with children and families as they learn. Students don’t just watch videos; they plan, implement, reflect, and improve their practice through work-based learning with families and children. By the time they earn this credential (24 contact hours), they can demonstrate readiness for the workforce or post-secondary education.
Learning That Goes Beyond Content
In education and youth development, most e-learning focuses on content comprehension. EnvisionEdPlus’ PDPlus® courses help aspiring educators move beyond content review and support them through real-world practical applications of their knowledge within work-based learning settings in their local communities.
Credential Requirements
Complete two foundational PDPlus® courses:
STEAMing up Literacy – Level 1 and Trauma Brain – Level 1
Complete one additional PDPlus® support course:
STEAMing up Literacy – Level 2, Differentiated & Engaged Instruction – Level 1, Trauma Brain – Level 2, or Supporting Families – Level 1
Each course requires approximately 8 hours, including work-based learning with children and/or families, for a total of 24 contact hours.
How Early Educator PDPlus® Works
PDPlus® courses guide learners as they apply what they learn in work-based environments in their local communities.
Expert facilitators interact asynchronously with learners throughout the course.
With support from expert facilitators, learners create lesson plans or action plans to demonstrate their skills.
Learners implement their plans within work-based learning sites.
Learners continuously reflect on their progress to adapt their practice, meet students’ needs, and use effective approaches.
This course sequence can also be used as part of the Early Learning Educator Pre-Apprenticeship program. To learn more contact us or attend an upcoming Fast Track: Education workshop.