Early Childhood Education

Program Description

Early childhood education is a pathway in the human science career cluster. It is a two year high school program designed to include classroom and hands-on experiences to prepare students for employment or continuing education in the early childhood education field. In the course of study, emphasis is placed on students’ personal and professional preparation for careers or education in the field, history and trends of early childhood education, children’s health and safety, child development, and child guidance and observation. Emphasis is also placed on career and professional development, characteristics of high quality early childhood centers, management and administration in quality child care programs, and the learning environment. Instructional strategies and activities implemented through the course of study are aligned to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and Child Development Associate (CDA) standards and assist students in meeting requirements for the CDA credential.

What should I expect in this program?

Students should expect the following assignments and projects:

  • Health, Safety and Nutrition Ideas and Activities

  • Learning Environment Project

  • Designing a Quality Childcare Facility

  • Lesson Plan Projects

  • Projects for Toys, Equipment, and Educational Learning Material guideline manuals

  • Mississippi Department of Health Childcare Regulations – Scavenger Hunt

  • Internship with Beechwood Elementary School Responsibilities

  • Field Trips with assigned classes at Beechwood Elementary School

  • Observations at Delta State University, Morrison Heights, and other childcare facilities

Students will also learn how to appropriately use laptops, Microsoft Office Technology, Paper Cutter, Ellison Machine, Laminator, Stove, and Microwave in an Early Childhood setting.

 

Student Organization:  FCCLA dues- $12

Uniform: Maroon or Dark Grey Scrubs (Under $45.00)  

Materials:  3 ring binder, Dividers, Paper, Highlighter, Pen and pencils, Memory Device

State Assessment: MS-CPAS2 (1st-year students) PBA (2nd-year students)