Head Start Training Requirements

Performance Standard: 45 CFR 1304.52 (k) Training and Development
One of the most important determinants of program excellence is the presence of well-trained, qualified staff. The Head Start training and development section 45 CFR 1304.52 (k) requires grantees and delegate agencies to provide orientation for new staff, volunteers and consultants. It also establishes a structured approach to staff training and development that is designed to foster relationships and build knowledge and skills. Whenever possible, staff training and development should carry academic credit.

The Staff qualifications and development section [62 U.S.C. 9843a] Sec. 648A.5 of the Head Start Act specifies that each Head Start teacher shall attend not less than 15 clock hours of professional development per year. Such professional development shall, among other things, be high-quality, sustained, intensive, and have a positive and lasting impact on classroom instruction and the teacher's performance in the classroom, and should be regularly evaluated by the program for effectiveness.

CCEI offers online coursework that can help meet these requirements:

Pre-service and In-service online training for new and experienced staff
Over 100 child care training courses in English & Spanish
Training topics pertinent to the industry in healthy and safety, nutrition and food service, child development, classroom management, guidance and discipline, inclusion, and many more
Administration and management professional development courses
General orientation and Infant/Toddler orientation programs
Certificate programs that can help meet the coursework requirements of the CDA, FCCPC, and more
IACET CEUs awarded for completed coursework
CCEI coursework articulates to college credit with several of CCEI’s college partners
Customized content hosting is available

Section 648A of the Head Start Act also lays out guidelines for the training of Head Start teachers and aides. By September 30, 2013, Head Start teaching assistants in a center-based program must have a minimum of the following:

At least a Child Development Associate credential;
Be enrolled in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree; or
Be enrolled in a child development associate credential program to be completed within 2 years.

CCEI offers a variety of online certificate programs to help Head Start staff meet this standard:

College Credit Eligible CDA
Instructor-Supported CDA – English
Instructor-Supported CDA – Spanish
Self-Study CDA
Early Childhood Credential –Holders of the CCEI Early Childhood Credential are considered qualified for Head Start positions that require a minimum of a CDA or other certificate.

All of these programs are self-paced and can be completed in one year. CCEI coursework has received college credit recommendations from the National College Credit Recommendation Service and articulates to college credit with CCEI’s college partners.

Performance Standard: 1304.40 Family Partnerships
(3) Grantee and delegate agencies must provide opportunities for parents to enhance their parenting skills, knowledge, and understanding of the educational and developmental needs and activities of their children and to share concerns about their children with program staff (see 45 CFR 1304.21 for additional requirements related to parent involvement). CCEI offers several courses on family and parenting in the online course catalog.

Benefits offered by CCEI to Head Start staff:

In-Kind Credit offered on most programs
Technical Help Desk to deliver assistance
Faculty Support
Student access to completion certificates