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Our fitness centers at YWCA Downtown and Midtown are now open as of June 22. As we reopen, you can be certain your health and safety is our top priority. YWCA Uptown plans to open on July 15. Learn more about reopening and our Uptown temporary closure.

Free Teacher Training

YWCA Workforce Development Program

Train for a career as a teacher – no cost for eligible participants!

YWCA Workforce Development Program is a high-quality program to earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which provides you the training you need to become a qualified early childhood education teacher.

You will gain the professional skills needed to teach in an early childhood education classroom, and once your training is complete and you pass your Child Development Associate (CDA) test you will receive help with job placement.

Successful trainees receive a monthly stipend for meeting expected program progress – receive financial support while learning!

Apply Here

Workforce Development Program Details

Full-Time Program, Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Length of Program: 6 - 9 months

Job Placement Support When Training is Complete

New cohorts start regularly, enroll today to be considered for future start dates

During Your Training You Will Receive

  • Child Development Associate (CDA) credential training
  • 200 hours of professional development workshops
  • 500 hours of teaching practicum, with a stipend
  • Resume and interview writing support
  • Job placement support

Qualifications

Strong interest in early childhood education: Infant, Toddler or Preschool age children

Ability to commit to a minimum of 32 hours per week of education and classroom work

Willingness to learn basic computer skills, navigate online systems and email

Organized, responsible, flexible, motivated and professional

Ability to accept and incorporate constructive feedback from mentors and program staff

Excellent time management and decision-making skills

Ability to work with diverse populations, personalities, and adapt to an early learning environment

Strong personal standards of excellence, ethics and integrity

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the workforce development program, you must meet the these requirements:

Age 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED by program start date

Meet household income requirements and provide proof of income (including spouse's income)

Pass background check

Provide a Photo ID, Social Security card, Proof of Citizenship/Right to Work

How to Apply

For questions, please contact Workforce Development Case Managers Riana Simone at rsimone@ywcampls.org or 612-215-4136.

Apply Now