Use the Educational Incentive Program (EIP) to help Obtain a CDA Credential
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New York's Educational Incentive Program (EIP) offers a valuable opportunity for child care providers to enhance their professional #development by earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. For those awarded this scholarship, this program supports providers by potentially covering a portion of the costs associated with CDA training and credentialing, making it an excellent resource for #early-childhood- #educators striving to improve their skills and advance their #careers.
Understanding the EIP Scholarship
The EIP is funded by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and is designed to help child care providers cover training costs to improve the quality of child care services. Awardees of the program could have up to $2,500 annually for CDA training, $500 for the CDA assessment application fee, and $150 for the renewal fee. Additionally, the program supports other professional development activities, such as coaching and workshops.
To qualify for an EIP scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or authorized to work in the U.S.
- Be employed at a New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYS OCFS) or New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) registered or licensed child care program.
- Provide direct care for children or supervise employees who do.
- Meet the program’s income eligibility requirements, as verified by the most recent IRS Form 1040.
Leveraging EIP to Pay for CDA Training with ChildCareEd
ChildCareEd is an EIP-approved training provider offering CDA training programs tailored to meet the specific needs of #early-childhood professionals. Here's how you can use your awarded EIP scholarship to pay for your CDA training with ChildCareEd:
- Create an ECETP Account: Visit ecetp.pdp.albany.edu to create an account and start the EIP application process.
- Select Your Training: Choose your preferred CDA training program—Infant/Toddler, Preschool, or Family Child Care—from the ChildCareEd website. Each program is designed to meet the 120-hour training requirement for the CDA credential.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect your most recent IRS Form 1040, proof of employment (e.g., a recent pay stub), and other necessary documents.
- Apply for an EIP Scholarship: Submit your EIP application online or via mail. Include the total cost of the ChildCareEd training as part of your application.
- Scholarship Discussion: After EIP processes your application (typically within 4–6 weeks), you will receive an email notifying you if you have been awarded a scholarship or not. If awarded, sign and accept the terms to finalize your award.
- Begin Your Training: Once your scholarship is approved, ChildCareEd will be notified, and your training will be added to your account, allowing you to start immediately.
Steps to Obtain the CDA Credential
If you have been awarded an EIP scholarship, follow these steps to earn your CDA credential:
- Complete 120 Hours of Training: Fulfill this requirement through your selected ChildCareEd program. The training covers essential topics like #safety, child development principles, and program management.
- Accumulate 480 Hours of Experience: Gain hands-on experience working with children in the setting and age group of your chosen CDA specialization.
- Build Your Professional Portfolio: Document your work and training experiences in a portfolio that demonstrates your competencies.
- Apply for CDA Assessment: Awardees could receive $ to cover the assessment fee. Submit your portfolio and schedule a verification visit with a Professional Development (PD) Specialist.
- Take the CDA Exam: Schedule and complete the CDA exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. Both the exam results and the PD Specialist’s verification report will be reviewed by the Council for Professional Recognition.
- Earn Your Credential: Upon approval, you’ll receive your CDA credential, marking a significant milestone in your professional development.
Benefits of Using EIP and ChildCareEd for CDA Training
- Cost Savings: If awarded an EIP scholarship, it could significantly reduce the financial burden of obtaining a CDA credential, potentially covering training costs and fees that might otherwise be a barrier for many providers.
- Flexibility: ChildCareEd offers online training programs that allow you to complete your coursework at your own pace, making it easier to balance work and study.
- Professional Growth: Earning a CDA credential enhances your skills and demonstrates your commitment to providing high-quality care, which can #lead to better job opportunities and higher wages.
Final Thoughts
The Educational Incentive Program (EIP) is an invaluable resource for child care providers in New York seeking to advance their careers. By leveraging EIP scholarships and partnering with a trusted training provider like ChildCareEd, you can achieve your goal of earning a CDA credential without financial strain.
Take the first step today by visiting ecetp.pdp.albany.edu to apply for your scholarship. With the support of EIP and the expert training provided by ChildCareEd, your journey toward professional excellence and career advancement is well within reach.
Scholarship funding may be available through the Educational Incentive Program (EIP)/ Medication Administration Training (MAT). For more information or to apply for a scholarship, please visit www.ecetp.pdp.albany.edu. You may also contact EIP/MAT by email at [email protected], MAT by email at [email protected], or by phone at either (800) 295-9616 or (518) 442-6575.
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