How We Are Setting Future Teachers Up for Success
Posted On July 19,2024
The foundation of a child’s educational journey begins in early childhood. The role of a teacher during these formative years is important in shaping young minds and fostering a lifelong love for learning. At Athena Career Academy, we recognize the importance of quality education for future teachers and the significance of a comprehensive early childhood education degree program. Our program is designed to set future teachers up for success by providing them with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel in the field of early childhood education. For those passionate about teaching and eager to make a positive impact on young children’s lives, enrolling in our program is the perfect step toward a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Benefits of a Two-Year Degree from a Vocational School
Pursuing a two-year degree from a vocational school like Athena Career Academy offers numerous advantages. The focused curriculum allows students to gain specialized knowledge and skills in a shorter time frame compared to traditional four-year programs. This accelerated path enables graduates to enter the workforce sooner and start making a difference in the lives of young children.
Vocational schools also provide a practical, hands-on approach to learning. Students at Athena Career Academy benefit from real-world experience through externships and classroom simulations, which prepares them for the dynamic environment of early childhood education. Additionally, the smaller class sizes and intimate learning environments foster closer relationships between students and faculty, ensuring personalized attention and support throughout the program.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Athena Career Academy is dedicated to offering a comprehensive two year early childhood education degree program that covers all essential aspects of teaching young children. Our curriculum includes a wide range of subjects including Foundations of Education, Child Development, and Early Childhood Literacy. This holistic approach ensures that our students are well-prepared to educate, encourage, inspire, and use positive guidance techniques in their future preschool classrooms.
Hands-On Training
One of the standout features of our program is the emphasis on hands-on training. Athena integrates practical experiences into the curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Our dedicated labs for art, music, and lesson planning activities provide students with the opportunity to develop and refine their teaching skills. This hands-on experience is invaluable in building confidence and competence, ensuring that graduates are ready to excel in their careers from day one.
NAEYC Standards and Ohio’s Early Learning Standards
Our program is aligned with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards and Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards. These guidelines ensure that our curriculum meets the highest educational benchmarks, preparing students to deliver quality education to children from birth through age five. By adhering to these standards, Athena Career Academy ensures that our graduates are equipped with the latest best practices in early childhood education.
Supportive Social Environment
At Athena, we believe in fostering a supportive and welcoming social environment for our students. The bonds formed during the program often turn into lifelong friendships, creating a network of support that extends beyond graduation. We encourage positive behavior, manners, and self-esteem building exercises to ensure our students not only become successful professionals but also excellent role models for young children.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates of Athena Career Academy’s early childhood education degree program are well-prepared to pursue a variety of career opportunities. With the skills and knowledge gained from our comprehensive curriculum, they can work as lead or head teachers, administrators in early childhood centers, play specialists, and even children’s directors on cruise ships.
Our graduates are also well-equipped to own and operate their own childcare centers, demonstrating the program’s versatility and the high demand for qualified early childhood educators.
The robust training provided at Athena Career Academy opens doors to employment in various settings, including Head Start programs, nationally accredited centers, Step Up To Quality centers, and many more. The extensive career opportunities available to our graduates highlight the value of our early childhood education degree program and its role in setting future teachers up for success.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Athena Career Academy is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education and approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools. This accreditation ensures that our programs meet rigorous educational standards and provide a quality education that prepares students for professional success. The accreditation also enhances the employability of our graduates, as employers recognize the value of a degree from a reputable institution.
Flexible Class Schedule
Understanding that many of our students have busy schedules, Athena Career Academy offers flexible program options. The early childhood education degree program can be completed in as little as two days a week, accommodating those who may be working or have other commitments. We offer both day and evening classes to further provide flexibility and ensure that our program is accessible to a wide range of students.
Our program operates on a quarterly system, with four start dates throughout the year—Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. This flexibility allows students to begin their education at a time that best suits their personal and professional needs, and we don’t have a waitlist.
Admission Requirements and Support
Athena Career Academy is committed to supporting our students from the moment they express interest in our program. The admission process includes attending an informational meeting with an admissions representative, completing an online application, and meeting with a financial aid administrator to discuss funding arrangements. Prospective students are also required to provide a copy of their high school or GED transcript, valid government identification, and complete an emergency medical form.
Our support extends beyond the admissions process. We offer one-on-one attention and a caring learning environment, ensuring that each student receives the guidance and support needed to succeed. Our low tuition rates make quality education accessible, and our accelerated program structure enables students to enter the workforce quickly.
Getting Started
If you are passionate about teaching and want to make a difference in the lives of young children, consider enrolling in Athena Career Academy’s early childhood education degree program. Contact us today to speak with Admissions and learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals and become a successful educator.