Starting this January, Lamar Community College is offering a unique opportunity to take the “fast track” to a new career – or career advancement – in Early Childhood Education (ECE). While ECE courses are available online each semester, LCC is bringing the courses back to campus to meet the needs of local childcare providers.
“We know training for childcare workers is a community need, and we are happy to be able to offer this service,” said Dr. Annessa Stagner Stulp, Dean of Academic Services.
During the 2019 spring and summer semesters, ECE students will learn from highly qualified instructors, while completing courses quickly and staying close to home. ECE courses will be available in a fast-track format; students will take one course at a time,completing each in two weeks and taking a week off in between classes. To help meet the needs of local childcare providers, classes will be held Friday evenings and on Saturdays inconsideration of existing schedules.
This unique schedule would make it easier for those outside of the Lamar area to travel to classes, if they prefer to attend in person. However, each class will also be available through distance learning, meaning students can attend class “live” from anywhere as long as they have a computer with a speaker,camera, and reliable internet access.
Individuals who enroll and complete the first two courses in January (ECE 101 and ECE 103) will meet the State of Colorado requirements to work in a childcare facility. Those who continue courses through July will meet the course requirements necessary to qualify for the State of Colorado’s Director’s License.
“Regional trend statistics suggest that employment for childcare workers is on the rise, so it’s a good career option for both young individuals looking to start their future as well as those looking to change careers,” Dr. Stagner Stulp said. “We hope the structure of this program will meet the needs of potential students and helpful fill childcare needs in our communities.”
Classes start January 11, 2019. To see a full schedule of courses and learn more about the fast-track Early Childhood Education program, visit lamarcc.edu/ece. Any interested students are encouraged to enroll as soon as possible. For questions regarding the ECE courses or toenroll, contact Jenna Davis at 719.336.1589 or jenna.davis@lamarcc.edu.