Child Development Accreditation Training

The CDA Training Program is a FREE (no-cost) training that has a PAID work experience opportunity as well as in classroom instruction. Successful graduates will be able to take the Child Development Associate Credential exam and earn this very important industry recognized credential. The CDA Training Program requires an 8 month (October 2022– May 2023) commitment. Participants will be required to complete a total of 640 hours of program work in total: Work Experience: 500 hours in an Early Childhood Center (Monday-Thursday for 6-8 hours a day) CDA Exam Preparation - Training Hours: 140 hours with a qualified instructor (Fridays for 6 hours) Interested applicants will complete a screening, full intake, and a DHS background check. Eligible participants who complete and pass all requirements will be hired as temporary Head Start employees during the training and receive a full wage for all training hours. Participants will also receive a free Chromebook to work on assignments, support services from a dedicated Employment Service Provider, along with other supports as needed (gas/bus cards, food, etc.)

Training Location: Head Start Location and Community Action Partnership of Ramsey and Washington County

Prerequisites: High School Diploma/GED

Cost: No Cost