THE PALM BEACH COUNTY
CAREER COMPASS
A Guide to Navigating Early Childhood Professional Development
1|Page
Table of Contents
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
About the Career Compass………………………………………………………………….………………………........4
a. What is the Career Compass? …………………………………………………………………………...........….... 5
b. Who will benefit from the Career Compass? .….………………………….……………….........…….…....5
c. What is professional development? ………………………….………………………………..........……........5
d. Why is professional development important?.......................................................................6
e. How will professional development advance my career?...………………………………...........…… 6
f. What kind of tools and resources are available? ................................................................. 6
The Career Pathway………………………………………………………………………………………….........……... 7
a. Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………………………..........….……. 8
b. The Informal Path …………….…………………………………………………………………………...........……….. 9
c. The Formal Path …………………………………..…………………………………………………………….........…. 10
d. The Hybrid Path………………………………………………………………………………………………….........….. 11
Florida Core Competencies…………………………………………………………………..………………..........…..12
a. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…....... 13
b. Importance and Purpose of Core Competencies ……………………………………………..........…….....14
c. Core Knowledge Areas …………………………………………………………………………………………............15
d. Tiers of Competencies……………………………………………………………………………........…………….….. 16
Career Advising Services……………………………………………………………………………..……..........…….….17
a. Introduction.………………………………………………………………………………………………………..........… 18
b. On Site Career Advising Session …………………………………………….…………………………..….......... 19
40 Hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy……………………………..……......... 20-26
40 Horas Certificación/30 Horas Certification + 5 Hora Sustantivo……………………………………….. 27
High School Diploma or GED…………………………………………………………………..…………………………... 28-33
Escuela Secundaria o GED - en Español ……………………………………….…………………………………….…..34
DCF Staff Credential…………………………………………………………………………………………………............. 35-60
DCF Staff Credential – Información en Español…………………………………………………………..……….….61
Informal ECE training……………………………………………………………………………………………............. 62-72
College Credit Certificates & Degrees…………………………………………………………….….……….……....73-97
Choosing A College or University…………………….………………………………………………..……..…….....98-101
DCF Director’s Credential…………………………………………………….……………………….……………........102-05
English for Speakers of Other Languages/
Ingles para Personas que Hablan Otro Idioma………………………………………………………………….. 106
a. Overview/Información General……………………………………………………………………………………… 107
b. First Option: ESOL through the School District of Palm Beach County……………………………. 108
Primera Opción: ESOL dado a través del School District of Palm Beach County...……………. 109
c. Second Option: Non-Credit ESOL through Corporate & Continuing Education
Division of Palm Beach State College ………………………………………………………………..…........... 110-11
Segunda Opción: ESOL de No-Credito dado a través de Corporate & Continuing
Education Division of Palm Beach State College………………………………..……………….………….. 112-13
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Table of Contents
XIII.
XIV.
XV.
XVI.
XVII.
d. Third Option: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) through Palm Beach
State College………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 114-16
Tercera Opción: Inglés para Propósitos Académicos dado a través de
Palm Beach State College……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 117-19
e. ESOL: Which Palm Beach State College Program is right for me? ...................................... 120
ESOL: ¿Cuál programa de ESOL del Palm Beach State College me
sirve a mi?........................................................................................................................... 121
f. ESOL : Palm Beach State College Options – Frequently Asked Questions………….……………. 122
ESOL: Opciones de ESOL de Palm Beach State College……………………………………………………. 123
Palm Beach County Early Childhood Registry…………………………………………………...……………… 124
a. Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….. 125
b. Practitioner Application…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 126-28
c. Creating a Registry Account…………………………………………………………………………………………... 129-40
d. Practitioner Report………..…………………………………………………………………………………….………... 141-42
e. Sample Registry Update Form………………………………………………………………………................... 143
f. Registry Training Event Calendar………………………………………………………………..…….…………....144-47
Scholarships & Awards.....…………………………………………………………………………………….…………...148
a. T.E.A.C.H………………………………………………………………………………………………………………........... 149-52
b. S.E.E.K. Scholarship Program………………………………………………………………………………………….. 153-59
c. Florida Child Care WAGE$ Project…………………………………………………………………….……………. 160
PantherWeb………………………………………………………………………………….…………………..……………. 161
a. Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 162-63
b. Course Registration…………………………………………………….…………………………………..…………….. 164-69
c. Student Email Account……………………………………………………………………………………..……………. 170-75
Palm Beach State College Student Services………………………………………………………………………. 176
a. Admissions…………………………………………………………………………………………….………..…………….. 177-85
b. Bookstore…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….............. 186-87
c. Cashier’s Office………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………… 188
d. Student Learning Center (SLC)……………………………………………………………………….…............... 189-91
e. Testing Center……………………………………………………………………………………………….………………..192-93
Appendix……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………....194
a. Commonly Used Websites…………………………………………………………………………..……………………….…..195-96
b. Glossary of Terms…………………………………………………………………………………………...……………...197-99
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ABOUT
CAREER
COMPASS
4|Page
About the Career Compass
What is the Career Compass?
The Career Compass for Palm Beach County’s early care and education workforce is designed to guide
practitioners along a career pathway. This guide will help you in two ways. The Career Compass will explain
how professional development opportunities lead to practitioner improvement. It will also offer tools and
information to help practitioners create a career plan and follow the plan to reach identified goals.
Who will benefit from the Career Compass?
1. All early care and education practitioners including those practitioners:
 Who are just entering the field to those practitioners with many years of education and
experience, and every practitioner in between
 Who work in family childcare homes, private centers, or public schools
 Who are in the role of Director, Assistant Director, and Curriculum Coordinator
2. Career Advisors
3. Early Learning Coaches
* For a definition of the above mentioned professional positions, see Appendix B: Glossary of Terms
What is Professional Development?
Many people immediately think of training when they hear the words professional development. It is true that
training is professional development, but it is only one branch of the professional development tree. Palm
Beach County defines professional development as, “the continued learning growth of practitioners in the
field of early childhood care and education.” Professional development helps practitioners grow in their
careers and meet requirements. It includes state credentials, trainings, conferences, college courses, and
professional association involvement.
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About the Career Compass
Why is professional development important?
Professional development makes sure that children will experience high quality early care and education.
Through professional development, practitioners gain the knowledge and skills they need to be caring and
responsive. This knowledge allows them to create environments that give children the best opportunities to
learn and grow.
How will professional development advance my career?
Professional development allows practitioners to increase their knowledge and skills and learn about the
newest research and best practices in the field. Career advisors and mentors such as directors can help
practitioners identify what they currently know and can do and, then, create career plans which will help them
build on this. Setting goals and achieving them allows practitioners to be the best they can be and, in turn,
create the highest quality environments for children.
What kind of tools & resources are available?
This guide will provide a variety of easy to use tools and resources that will enable the user to understand how
to plan her early childhood career in an organized step-by-step manner. These tools include:
 Planning your career based on the Career
Pathway
 Using the Early Childhood Registry to track
your professional accomplishments
 Understanding the Florida Core
Competencies to expand your professional
skills
 Utilizing Educational Scholarships and
Incentive opportunities
 Accessing resources for English Speakers of
Other Languages (ESOL)
 Obtaining accredited college certification
and degree Information
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THE
CAREER
PATHWAY
7|Page
The Career Pathway
Introduction
A Career Pathway has been designed to provide options for the Early Care and Education workforce to
participate in credit coursework and informal training based on common content that is organized in Florida
Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners.
The Career Pathway, which has clearly identified achievement points, moves practitioners along a coordinated
and sequential route that leads to qualifications, credentials, and college degrees. It is designed to meet the
needs of practitioners in different roles and at different places in their professional development.
A practitioner can choose from three options to move along the Career Pathway: the formal pathway which is
comprised of college credit courses, the informal pathway which is comprised of informal trainings, or the
hybrid pathway, which is a combination of college credit courses and informal trainings. Although not to be
assumed equivalent, all three choices will provide a practitioner with a progression of knowledge and skills
needed to create healthy learning environments for children. Articulation may occur at certain points, and
through certain colleges; but, keep in mind that placement on any step of the Career Pathway is no guarantee
of articulation to another pathway on the same step. Articulation is a process that allows the transfer of credit
or hours within and between educational institutions. Articulation helps to make progress from one education
step to the next more efficient.
A high school diploma or GED and successful completion of the required DCF Introductory Childcare Training
are required to begin career pathway movement.
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The Career Pathway
The Informal Path
Prior to entering the informal path, practitioners must complete the Department of Children & Families (DCF)
Introductory Childcare Training – the State of Florida mandated entry-Tier training. This training prepares
practitioners by offering a basic overview of the early childhood field in Florida and allows them to meet
licensing requirements. Also, prior to completing the first step along the informal path, practitioners are
encouraged to complete the Personal & Professional Development for Early Childhood Practitioners 16 hour
career pathway training to orient them to purpose and practice of professional development.
The first step along the informal path is the DCF Staff Credential, which can be attained by completing one of
several certification programs – the Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC), Florida Child Care
Professional Credential (FCCPC), or Child Development Associate (CDA National). Those who complete the
ECPC or FCCPC through a regionally accredited college program or the CDA National through the Council for
Professional Recognition will have the opportunity to articulate their certification coursework to early
childhood education credit hours. Practitioners will need to inquire with their local state or community college
to learn more about the process of articulation since requirements vary from college to college. Once
articulation has occurred, students have moved from the informal pathway to the formal pathway.
Those who seek to continue on the informal path will have the option of taking various types of early
childhood trainings and non-credit courses that focus on those areas of skill improvement needed to
strengthen their classroom performance and effectiveness. These fall under Career Pathway Training, and
meet specific requirements. In order to help practitioners decide which career pathway trainings to take,
practitioners are encouraged to review the Florida State Core Competencies with their directors, career
advisors, or early learning coaches to identify Career Pathway Training.
9|Page
The Career Pathway
The Formal Path
The Formal Path requires a standard high school diploma or a G.E.D. (General Educational Development).
Practitioners seeking a high school diploma are encouraged to discuss this decision with their career advisors
prior to choosing a program to ensure the institution meets the required accrediting criteria. A regionally
accredited high school diploma or GED is required for admission to all regionally accredited colleges and
universities throughout the state of Florida. Thus, to start credit coursework that leads to a college credit
certificate, associate, bachelor or master degree in the field of early childhood education, a practitioner’s
official high school diploma must be submitted to the college to which applying.
Some practitioners begin their college education by taking courses to achieve a college credit certificate. A
college credit certificate includes a cluster of credit courses that focus on such specialization as infant/toddler,
preschool, or child care management. Practitioners should check with their local college to discover the types
of college credit certificates awarded. (See college credit certificates and degree section) After completing a
certificate, a practitioner has the option to apply the certificate credits toward an associate degree in early
childhood education or child development. After completing the associate degree, there is an opportunity to
pursue a bachelor degree in early childhood education or child development, and eventually to complete
graduate coursework toward a graduate degree.
At all Florida community and state colleges, such as Palm Beach State College, practitioners have the
opportunity to articulate their staff credential toward an associate degree in early childhood education, once
other requirements have been fulfilled. Additionally, there are several child care apprenticeship programs
through local technical/vocational schools which have articulation agreements with area state and community
colleges. Through this articulation agreement, apprenticeship graduates may have the opportunity to
articulate their vocational courses into early childhood credits. Practitioners will need to inquire of their local
state or community college about this articulation process as it varies from college to college.
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The Career Pathway
The Hybrid Path
The hybrid option allows for movement along the pathway through a combination of credit courses and
informal training. A practitioner can complete both college credit courses and some informal training that is
identified as career pathway training, and is provided through a recognized training organization or approved
trainer. Practitioners should check with the Palm Beach County Registry and the local Palm Beach County
training agencies to discover who in their area provides career pathway training.
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FLORIDA
CORE
COMPETENCIES
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Florida Core Competencies
Introduction
The Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners describe what practitioners need to
know and be able to do to create quality environments for children. The competencies are organized into tiers
or levels. As the tiers increase so do the skills and knowledge. This ensures that all those working in the field
whether they are just starting out or have been working in early care and education for many years can use
the competencies. The competencies are very important to the state’s professional development system. They
help teachers assess their current skills and decide which areas they want to be the focus of their professional
development. (Reference: Florida Core Competencies for Early Care & Education Practitioners, Page 1)
www.palmbeachstate.edu/x21226.xml
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Florida Core Competencies
The importance and purpose of the core competencies are summarized as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Identifies and defines what practitioners need to know and be able to do to provide quality early care
and education
Describes what practitioners at various points in their careers should know and be able to do allowing
them to create career plans that meet their individual needs and support effective job performance
Creates a common language for professional development that can be used statewide
Serves as a standard for decisions and practices carried out by practitioners in all early care and
education settings and programs
Provides guidelines for developing, tracking, supporting, and promoting staff qualifications, courses,
tools, and resources for practitioners in different early care and education settings
Creates a framework to promote recognition of the significance of the early care and education
profession, informs accountability systems, and guides training, education, articulation agreements
between institutions, and interagency agreements. (Reference: Florida Core Competencies for Early
Care & Education Practitioners, Page 1)
www.palmbeachstate.edu/x21226.xml
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Florida Core Competencies
Core Knowledge Areas
The Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners are organized into Core Knowledge
Areas (CKAs). Each Core Knowledge Area focuses on a different topic related to quality care for children, and
all related competencies are then grouped together in each area. The Core Knowledge Areas are general
enough so that they can apply to a wide variety of settings and programs. The Florida Core Competencies for
Early Care and Education Practitioners are organized under the following Core Knowledge Areas: (Reference:
Florida Core Competencies for Early Care & Education Practitioners, Page 4):
www.palmbeachstate.edu/x21226.xml
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Florida Core Competencies
Tiers of Competencies
The Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners have been organized into four tiers
or levels. The tiers increase from basic skills to more advanced ones and build on each other. The lower tiers
include skills such as knowing and following practices. Mid-Tier skills progress to planning and implementing
activities and procedures. The higher tiers require analyzing and evaluating programs. Practitioners must
learn the knowledge and skills in the lower tiers before moving on to the ones listed under the higher tiers. Of
course, there are always exceptions. Sometimes, the same knowledge and skills may appear in different tiers.
The tiers provide a path for practitioners to enter and progress in the early care and education field. They are
designed so that they can be used in a variety of ways depending on a practitioner’s individual needs and
current skills and abilities. For this reason, they are not tied to particular jobs or positions of employment.
(Reference: Florida Core Competencies for Early Care & Education Practitioners, Page 4)
www.palmbeachstate.edu/x21226.xml
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CAREER
ADVISING
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Career Advising
Introduction
Career advising is offered to Palm Beach County early childhood practitioners and directors who either have a
service agreement with Family Central Inc. or who participate in the Quality Counts Quality Rating
Improvement System. Employed by the Palm Beach State College Institute of Excellence in Early Care and
Education, career advisor provides early childhood practitioners encouragement, a sense of direction, and
awareness of opportunities for professional development. During advising sessions, the career advisor can
point the practitioner in the right direction and assist them in navigating the pathways of professional
development. A broad base of knowledge and skills are needed for the advancement of the practitioner.
Career advising offers practitioners current career information and resources necessary to make informed
decisions and choices about their career in early childhood education. The career advising process empowers
practitioners and fosters their ability to advance along the career pathway step by step.
In addition, career advisors offer support to practitioners on various scholarship and award opportunities,
credential programs, academic programs, and training events. These resources and programs are described
throughout this manual and consist of:
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Career Advising
Onsite Advising Sessions
Career advisors visit assigned Quality Counts sites at least once a semester to meet with practitioners and
directors to guide staff on career planning and academic planning decisions. Career advisor visits occur well in
advance of SEEK scholarship academic course deadlines to ensure practitioners have ample time to follow
through on their individual development plans. In order to provide clear and well-understood planning
information, career advisors meet with veteran practitioners for 20-30 minutes segments and with new
practitioners for 30-40 minutes. Optimally, career advisors conduct their advising sessions with practitioners in
a private, well-lit and quiet setting onsite that offers computer access or enables the career advisor to set up
their laptop computers. Due to the nature and staffing needs of early childhood facilities, practitioners may
need to cut short advising sessions. In such situations, career advisors will strongly recommend that
practitioners contact them for follow up phone consultation to address any unanswered questions or
concerns.
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40 HOUR
CERTIFICATION/
30 HOUR
CERTIFICATION
+ 5 HOUR LITERACY
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
Steps to Completing the 40-Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy/or
30-Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
STEP 1: Create DCF Training Login/Registration
https://training01dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/reg/studentlogin?COURSESESSIONIDIN=1&onlinetraining=Y&transcript=N&myco
urses=N
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
STEP 2: Read through DCF Part I & Part II for the Child Care Facility Practitioner
http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childcare/facility.shtml
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
OR
STEP 2: Read through DCF Part I & Part II for the Family Child Care Home Practitioner
http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childcare/licensedfamily.shtml
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
Step 3: Complete Part 1 Training (30 Hours) Online Course or Instructor Led Course
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/reg/courseselector
Step 4: Choose the Palm Beach State College Option for Child Care Facility Practitioners
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14708.xml
OR
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
Step 4: Choose the Palm Beach State College Option for Family Child Care Home Practitioners
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14710.xml
Step 5: Apply to Palm Beach State College (if not a current student)
https://webservices2.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/student/noncredit/application.jsp?ssn=yes
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40 hour Certification/30 Hour Certification + 5 Hour Literacy
Step 6: Access PantherWeb to Register for Your Part I courses at Palm Beach State College on
https://webservices2.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/registration/coursesearch.jsp?ClsStTy=ON
OR
Step 6: Register to take DCF Competency Exam Registration
http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childcare/compexams.shtml
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40 Horas De Certificación/30 Horas De Certificación + 5 Horas de
Literatura
Descripción Del Entrenamiento Para Cuidado Infantil
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/7/224.pdf#page=1
&
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/reg/printer_friendly_schedule?countyidselected=50
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HIGH SCHOOL
DIPLOMA
OR
GED
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High School Diploma or GED
High School Diploma Programs
For practitioners considering advancing their career through the formal/credit career path, it is highly
recommended that practitioners attain their high school diploma from a regionally accredited high school
program or attain a GED; in Florida, the regionally accrediting agency is the Southern Association of Colleges
and Schools (SACS).
How to inquire about a high school’s accreditation
http://www.fldoe.org/cie/
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High School Diploma or GED
Steps to completing a State of Florida GED
Step 1: Access State of Florida Department of Education (DOE) Website
www.fldoe.org/workforce/ged
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High School Diploma or GED
Step 2: Prepare for the GED Test
http://ged.fldoe.org/prepare.asp
Step 3: GED Test Preparation in Palm Beach County
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ged/tests.asp
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High School Diploma or GED
Step 4: Access additional GED Preparation Resources
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ged/videos.asp
Step 5: GED Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.pbceducator.net/ged/faq.shtml
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High School Diploma or GED
Step 6: Register for GED Test Registration
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ged/tests.asp
Step 7: GED Test Locations
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ged/tests.asp
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Escuela Secundaria o GED - en Español
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/ged/study.asp
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Department of
Children & Families
(DCF) STAFF CREDENTIAL
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DCF Staff Credential
Overview
A Staff Credential is an official designation that means an individual's professional education meets or exceeds
the professional criteria set by the Department of Children and Families. There are several ways to obtain
professional education in the field of childcare. Individuals can attend college or university programs, can seek
a National Early Childhood Credential (such as a CDA – National), can attend a state-approved Florida Child
Care Professional Credential program (FCCPC) or a Florida Department of Education approved Early Childhood
Professional Certificate (ECPC) in order to achieve higher education in child development. Practitioners can
obtain a Staff Credential by submitting copies of transcripts or a program certificate to the credential unit of
DCF. If an individuals' professional education meets the criteria, a Staff Credential Verification (Form CF-FSP
5206) is issued.
Staff
Credential
• Active FCCPC
• Active ECPC
• Active NECC
(eg: CDA National)
• Bachelor Degree or Higher
Staff
Credential
(DNE = Does Not Expire)
see application for list of fields
• Associate Degree
in Early Childhood Education (ECE)/Child
Development (CD)
• Associate Degree or Higher
with at least 6 ECE/CD credits & 480 hours
ages 0-8 experience in childcare setting
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DCF Staff Credential
Comparison of ECPC & FCCPC Required Training Components
Although both the ECPC and FCCPC meet the staff credential requirement, there are slight variations in the
required training components. In an effort to assist practitioners in understanding the variations between the
two training programs, the following is an overview of the required training components
Area (s) of
Specialization
Classroom Instruction
Department of Education (DOE)
Early Childhood Professional Certificate
(ECPC)
•
Facility-based preschool only
•
120 hours this must include the 40 hour
DCF Introductory Training. The 10 hour
specialization training component of the
DCF Introductory Training must be
Preschool Appropriate Practices.
The 120 hours must also include a 5 hour
DCF-approved literacy course.
120 hours must include a minimum of
ten hours in each of the eight content
areas.
480 hours working with children five
years or younger in a laboratory or child
care setting.
All 480 hours must be completed while
enrolled in the training program.
Each student is formally observed once
by a qualified observer, preferably in the
role of lead teacher
•
•
Work Experience
•
•
Observation
•
Early Childhood
Portfolio
Department of Children and Families (DCF)
Birth through Five Florida Child Care
Professional Credential (FCCPC)
•
•
•
•
•
•
Facility-based infant & toddler
Facility-based preschool
Facility-based birth through five
Family Child Care Home
120 hours; DCF Introductory Training shall
not be included in the 120 hours.*
The 120 hours must include a minimum of
ten hours in each of the eight content
areas.
•
480 hours working with children in an early
childhood setting in the last five years
• A minimum of 80 of the 480 hours must be
completed while attending the training
program
• Each student is formally observed once by a
qualified observer while working in an early
childhood classroom setting in the role of
lead teacher
• Autobiography
• Statement of Competence
• Resource Collection
FCCPC training programs:
• Report student completion data to DCF via
the FCCPC Student Info Form 5_11_07
• Autobiography
• Statement of Competence
• Resource Collection
Miscellaneous
ECPC training programs:
• Follow DOE prescribed curriculum
framework & report data to DOE via the
ECPC Record of Issuance Form.
• Are Secondary (high school) and
Postsecondary Adult Vocational (PSAV)
programs
*FCCPC training programs approved prior to September 1, 2007 have until June 30, 2009 to remove the DCF Introductory Training
from the 120 hours of classroom instruction.
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Introduction
This program prepares students working with children birth to age 3 in a licensed childcare facility or family
childcare home for the Florida DCF Staff Credential and the CDA National credential. The program is divided
into three modules covering the eight content areas for the Florida Child Care Professional Certificate (FCCPC)
in which a student must demonstrate competence. In total, the FCCPC program includes 120 hours of FCCPC
coursework, a resource file and professional portfolio, 480 hours of work experience and on-site observation
in an infant-toddler classroom setting.
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 1: Choose the Palm Beach State FCCPC Program
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/cda/cdaeprogram_listing_print?countyidselected=50
Palm Beach State
College Program
Step 2: Read through the Palm Beach State College FCCPC Program description and attend the mandatory
information Session
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x17852.xml
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 3: Read through the Palm Beach State College FCCPC Course Syllabus
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x17852.xml
Step 4: Complete the Admissions process for a Palm Beach State College PSAV program.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/application-0210.pdf
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 5: Insert the correct Program Objective Code (POC) on your Palm Beach State College Application. Make
sure to include the FCCPC Program Objective Code (POC) on the application - 5390
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/application-0210.pdf
5390
Step 6: Submit an official high school diploma or GED.
Without an official transcript on file with the Palm Beach State College Admissions office, student will be dropped from course. For
further explanation see Admissions section of this manual (pages__________)
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3997.xml
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 7: Register for FCCPC Modules: HEV0807; HEV0808; HEV0809 via PantherWeb
https://webservices1.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/registration/coursesearch.jsp
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 8: After FCCPC course completion, submit for Staff Credential by completing the Florida Child Care Staff
Credential Verification Application
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/6/467.pdf#page=1
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College FCCPC Option
Step 9: Submit for Articulation -convert your FCCPC PSAV credits to 9 ECE credits (for students who have
completed 15 credits towards as A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education). For additional information, contact
the Early Childhood Education Department @ 561-862-4719
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14712.xml
Step 10: Calculate when to renew your FCCPC credential
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/reg/do_staff_credential_calculation
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Introduction
The Florida Department of Education Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) program prepares the
student who works with children 3-5 years old in a licensed childcare setting for the Florida DCF Staff
Credential and the CDA National credential. The program is divided into three modules covering the eight
content areas for the Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) in which a student must demonstrate
competence. In total, the ECPC program includes 120 hours of ECPC coursework, 480 hours of work
experience and on-site observation in a classroom setting.
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Steps to Completing the Age Three – Five ECPC Program
Step 1: Choose an ECPC program
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/-99/551.pdf#page=1
Palm Beach State
Program
Step 2: Read through the Palm Beach State College ECPC Program description and attend the mandatory
information session
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14712.xml
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Step 3: Read through the Palm Beach State College FCCPC Course Syllabus
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14712.xml
Step 4: Complete the Admissions process for a Palm Beach State College PSAV program.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/application-0210.pdf
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Step 5: Insert the correct Program Objective Code (POC) on your Palm Beach State College Application. Make
sure to include the ECPC Program Objective Code (POC) on the application - 5364
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/application-0210.pdf
5364
Step 6: Submit an official high school diploma or GED.
Without an official transcript on file with the Palm Beach State Admissions office, student will be dropped from course. For further
explanation, see Admissions section of this manual.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3997.xml
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Step 7: Register for ECPC Modules: HEV0130; HEV0131; HEV0132 via PantherWeb
https://webservices1.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/registration/coursesearch.jsp
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Step 8: After ECPC course completion, submit for Staff Credential by completing the Florida Child Care Staff
Credential Verification Application
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/6/467.pdf#page=1
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DCF Staff Credential – Palm Beach State College ECPC Option
Step 9: Submit for articulation - convert your ECPC PSAV credits to 9 ECE credits (for students who have
completed 15 credits towards as A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education). For additional information, contact
the Early Childhood Education Department @ 561-862-4719
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14712.xml
Step 10: Calculate when to renew your ECPC credential
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/reg/do_staff_credential_calculation
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DCF Staff Credential – National Early Childhood Certificate (NECC)
Introduction
The Department of Children and Families recognizes the following credentials as meeting the definition of
“National Early Childhood Certificate” in 65C-22.003(1) (p), Florida Administrative Code. These National Early
Childhood Certificate programs will the requirement for a State of Florida DCF Staff Credential upon
completion.




Child Development Associate (CDA National)
National Child Care Association
American Montessori Society (AMS)
Montessori Early Childhood Teaching Training Program
http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childcare/necc_programs.shtml
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DCF Staff Credential – National Early Childhood Certificate (NECC)
Child Development Associate (CDA National)
http://www.cdacouncil.org/the-cda-credential/about-the-cda
National Child Care Association– Certified Child Care Professional (CCP)
http://www.nccanet.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=34
.
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DCF Staff Credential – National Early Childhood Certificate (NECC)
American Montessori Society – Teacher Education Program
http://www.amshq.org/About%20AMS/What%20We%20Are%20Doing/Teacher%20Education.aspx
Complete Staff Credential Application and submit certificate with application
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/6/467.pdf#page=1
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DCF Staff Credential – National Early Childhood Certificate (NECC)
Submit for Articulation by converting your CDA National certificate to 9 ECE credits (for students who have
completed 15 credits towards as A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education)
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DCF Staff Credential – Additional Options
Family Central 120 Hours + Training
Family Central, Inc. provide an online training program in which a student can complete modules that when
completed can be used as evidence for the CDA National credential provided by the Council for Professional
Development; this credential can then in turn be submitted to DCF for the Staff credential and as long as the
practitioner continues to renew their CDA National they will maintain their DCF Staff Credential.
http://www.nexportsolutions.com/fam_central
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DCF Staff Credential – Additional Options
DCF Approved Staff Credential Programs
Several DCF approved providers offer the FCCPC and/or ECPC program to early childhood practitioners besides
Palm Beach State College. Before committing to one of these trainings, please contact your career advisor and
consult the website listed below.
Page 1
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/cda/cdaeprogram_listing_print?countyidselected=50
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DCF Staff Credential – Additional Options
DCF Approved Staff Credential Programs
Page 2
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/cda/cdaeprogram_listing_print?countyidselected=50
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DCF Staff Credential – Additional Options
DCF Approved Staff Credential Programs
Page 3
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/cda/cdaeprogram_listing_print?countyidselected=50
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DCF Staff Credential – Additional Options
DCF Approved Staff Credential Programs
Page 4
https://training01-dcf.myflorida.com/dcf/cct/cda/cdaeprogram_listing_print?countyidselected=50
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DCF Staff Credential – Información en Español
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/(X(1))/documents/7/224.pdf#page=1
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INFORMAL
EARLY
CHILDHOOD
TRAINING
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Introduction
Palm Beach State College’s Institute of Excellence in Early Care & Education offers a variety of registry
approved non-credit ECE courses each semester. The non-credit courses are divided into the follow categories:
Curriculum Specific Courses, Infant/Toddler Curriculum Support Courses, Preschool Curriculum Support
Courses, Leadership/Management Courses, and Core Competency Courses. The courses are assigned a course
ID with the letters “HEO”, are typically taught over 2 to 4 sessions, and range is length from 8 – 16 hours in
total. For more course information and syllabi, please click on the web link below.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x16792.xml
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Sample List of Infant/Toddler Non-Credit Courses
COURSE ID
TOTAL
COURSE
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
HEO0111: Infant & Toddler Caregiving I
16
Child Development and Learning; Teaching and
Learning Environments and Interactions
Tier 2
HEO0112: Infant & Toddler Caregiving II
12
Building Family & Community; Teaching and
Learning Environments and Interactions
Tier 2
HEO0113: Learning In Everyday
Moments: Infant/Toddler Development
12
Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO 0115: Personal & Professional
Development
16
Professionalism
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0156: High/Scope Infant/Toddler
Overview
12
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0161: Creative Curriculum for
Infants, Toddlers and Two's Overview
12
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and Assessing;
Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Sample List of Preschool Non-Credit Courses
COURSE ID
TOTAL COURSE
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
HEO0110: Preschool Language &
Literacy Workshop Series
16
Child Development and Learning; Teaching and
Learning Environments and Interactions
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0114: Learning in Everyday
Moments: Preschool child
16
Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO0115: Personal &
Professional Development
12
Professionalism
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0128: Creative Curriculum
Overview*
12
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing; Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO0129: High/Scope Overview*
12
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing; Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO0131: Preschool Math &
Science
16
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Tier 2
HEO0132: Adult/Child Interaction
16
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing; Teaching and Learning Environments
and Interactions
Tier 2
HEO0143: A Healthy Food &
Fitness Program for Preschoolers
8
Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Tier 2
* Practitioners need to complete 1 curriculum training as part of the Preschool Track
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Sample List of Preschool Non-Credit Courses - Continued
COURSE ID
TOTAL COURSE
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
HEO0135: Science/Exploring
Caterpillars & Butterflies
16
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions; Curriculum
Tier 2-3
HEO0136: Visual Arts &
Representation
8
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Tier 2-3
HEO0137: Music & Creative
Movement
8
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Tier 2-3
HEO0138: Play/Reflective
Listening
8
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions; Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO0162: Authentic
Assessment & Portfolio
12
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions; Child Development and Learning
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0179: Beyond Centers &
Circle Time Curriculum
Overview*
12
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing; Child Development and Learning
Tier 2
HEO0208: Preschool:
Assessment to Lesson Planning
8
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing
Tier 2-3
* Practitioners need to complete 1 curriculum training as part of the Preschool Track
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Sample List of Leadership/Management Non-Credit Courses
COURSE ID
TOTAL COURSE
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
HEO0202: Foundations of
Outcomes Driven Training
12 hours
Professionalism
Tier 2
HEO0209: High Performing Leader
I (HPL)
36 hours
Professionalism; Program Management &
Administration Tier 2
HEO0210: HPL- Administration
16 hours
Program Management & Administration
Tier 2
HEO0211: HPL- From Inside Out
16 hours
Professionalism; Program Management &
Administration
Tier 2
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Non-Credit ECE Courses
Sample List of Curriculum Support Non-Credit Courses
COURSE ID
TOTAL COURSE
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
HEO0159: Successful
Communication for Early
Childhood Educators
16 hours
Professionalism
Tier2- 3
HEO0115: Personal &
Professional Development
12 hours
Professionalism
Tier 2 & 3
HEO0220: Career Development
through Portfolio Creation
12 hours
Professionalism
Tier 2-3
68 | P a g e
Informal Early Childhood Training: Community Trainings
Introduction
Community trainers are trainers who meet the Palm Beach County Early Childhood Registry standards and
have submitted their trainings for registry approval to assure training quality assurance. The community
trainers represent a cross section of the South Florida early childhood professional community and offer a
wide variety of trainings to meet the needs of Palm Beach County’s early childhood practitioners and
directors.
Family Central Training Academy
http://www.familycentral.org/TrainingAcademyClassPB
Family Central’s Training Academy provides a variety of training workshops tailored to meet the needs of the
early childhood professional community. Trainings can be provided at Family Central or at your site. Many of
the training academy’s classes are in Spanish.
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Community Trainings
Family Central Training Calendar*
*For a listing of Family Central registry approved trainings, refer to the PBC registry website at www.pbcregistry.org
70 | P a g e
Informal Early Childhood Training: Community Trainings
Sample List of Family Central Trainings
TRAINING TITLE
TOTAL
TRAINING
HOURS
CORE KNOWLEDGE AREA
Math Activities in the Preschool
Classroom (Spanish)
7.5 hours
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Creative Curriculum for Infants,
Toddlers, and Twos
12 hours
Teaching and Learning Environments and
Interactions
Developmentally Appropriate
Curriculum for FCCH
12 hours
Building Family and Community Relationships
Beyond Cribs and Rattles
12 hours
Child Development and Learning
Second Helping Modules 1- 4
32 hours
Professionalism
ECERS-R8
24 hours
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing to Support Young Children and Their
Families
Curriculum Implementation
Series
7.5 hours
Observing, Documenting, Screening, and
Assessing to Support Young Children and Their
Families
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Informal Early Childhood Training: Community Trainings
Sample List of Additional Community Trainings
http://www.pbcregistry.org/ftr/default.asp
Training Title
Total
Training
Hours
Core Knowledge Area
Trainer
Managing Feelings &
Behavior Part 1:
Acceptance
3 hours
Child Development and Learning
All ‘Bout Children
Conscious Discipline
12 hours
Teaching and Learning Environments
and Interactions
Brainheart Guidance
Read It Again, Please
4 hours
Teaching and Learning Environments
and Interactions
Creative Beginning Steps
Early Math Activities for
Home and School
2.5 hours
Teaching and Learning Environments
and Interactions
The Pear Institute
Working With Parents
Who Have Children with
Disabilities
2 hours
Child Development and Learning;
Building Family and Community
Relationships
Palm Beach County/
University of Florida
Extension
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COLLEGE CREDIT
CERTIFICATES
AND
DEGREES
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Introduction
To complete the 12 ECE credit hours benchmark, practitioners need to complete 12 college credit courses that
have an early childhood education or childhood development Course ID. Palm Beach State College’s College
Credit Certificate offers that student a way to attain this benchmark while deepening their knowledge in a
specific early childhood area of interest. In addition, after students complete and graduate with a college
credit certificate, they can apply their certificate credits to one of the three A.S. degrees in Early Childhood
Education and subsequently, if they choose, apply those same credits towards a Florida Atlantic University
Bachelor in Early Care and Education (BECE).
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 1: Choose the Child Care Management Certificate
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3223.xml?id=37
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 1: Choose the Infant/Toddler Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=40
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 1: Choose the Preschool Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=42
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 1: Choose the High/Scope Preschool Approach Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=39
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 2: Understand the Child Care Management Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=37
OR
Step 2: Understand the Infant/Toddler Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=40
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 2: Understand the Preschool Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=42
OR
Step 2: Understand the High/Scope Preschool Approach Certificate
http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=39
OR
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 3: Complete Credit Application for Admissions to Palm Beach State College
http://facts23.facts.org/admissions/user.do?ficeCode=00015120000&application=C
Step 4: Submit official High School Diploma/GED and/or College Transcripts
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3997.xml
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 5: Register through PantherWeb for College Credit Certificate Courses
https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x5687.xml
Infant/Toddler
Certificate Course EEC1522:
Infant/Toddler
Environments
Child Care
Management
Certificate Course
- EEC1523:
Overview of Child
Care Center
Management
Preschool
Certificate Course EEC1300: Early
Childhood
Language Arts
High/Scope
Preschool
Approach
Certificate Course
– EEC1309:
Introduction to
High/Scope
Montessori
Preschool
Curriculum
Specialization
Course – EEC1006:
Montessori
Philosophy
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
College Credit Certificate Options
Step 6: After completing the 4 College Credit Certificate courses, apply for graduation
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x1787.xml
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education Options
Introduction
Starting October 2012, sites pursuing the 4 & 5 Star professional development rating will need to ensure a
certain percentage of their practitioners and management complete 60 college credits to include 12 ECE
credits. To complete this benchmark, practitioners have the option of completing one of the three Palm Beach
State College’s Associates of Science in Early Childhood Education. In addition, after students complete and
graduate with Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education, they can articulate their Associate degree
credits towards a Florida Atlantic University Bachelor in Early Care and Education (BECE).
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education
Step 1: Choose the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3223.xml?id=45
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education
Step 2: Understand the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education
*Your specialization (Preschool; Child Care Center Management; Infant/Toddler; or High/Scope) will be based on the college credit
certificate you choose to complete or have completed
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3223.xml?id=45
*These are
various
degree
Specialization
s options. All
specialization
s are listed
under 1
Program
Objective
Code (POC)
86 | P a g e
College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education Options
Step 3: Complete Credit Application for Admissions to Palm Beach State College
http://facts23.facts.org/admissions/user.do?ficeCode=00015120000&application=C
Step 4: Submit official High School Diploma/GED and/or College Transcripts
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3997.xml
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education Options
Step 5: Register through PantherWeb for an AS Degree in ECE Course
https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x5687.xml
EXAMPLE
of a
General
Education
Course
EXAMPLE of a
possible
Required
Course
88 | P a g e
College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education Options
Step 6: After completing 63 credit hours toward the AS Degree in Early Childhood Education or the AS Degree
in Early Childhood Education/Montessori Concentration, apply for graduation
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x1787.xml
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor Degree in Early Care & Education (B.E.C.E.)
Introduction
The Bachelor Degree in Early Care and Education (BECE) is designed to prepare teachers and related personnel
for employment in the fields of childcare and children’s services, working with children birth to age five.
Students enrolling in the program are required to complete 60 credits of lower division courses. This could
include the A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education determined by the articulation agreements with state
and community colleges such as Palm Beach State College. After completing an A.S. degree in Early Childhood
Education students need to follow the admissions process for acceptance into the BECE program. Some
additional courses in a foreign language, natural science or math, may be required for acceptance to the
program. In exploring the BECE degree option, contact the FAU Office of Student and Academic Services. For
students interested in Early Childhood related Bachelor degree programs through Lynn University, Nova
Southeastern University, and Palm Beach Atlantic University see pages 93 -94 for more information.
http://www.coe.fau.edu/academicdepartments/ese/undergrad.aspx
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Step 1: Understand the BECE Degree Course Requirements
http://www.coe.fau.edu/ese/Study_Programs_Bachelors.htm
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Step 2: Review the Transfer Agreement between Palm Beach State College and Florida Atlantic University in
order to transfer your Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education to the FAU Bachelor in Early Care &
Education
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6100.xml
Click here to
Review
Agreement
Step 3: Understand the Admissions Requirements
http://www.coe.fau.edu/ese/Study_Programs_Bachelors.htm
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Step 4: Review AS Degree Transcript with an FAU academic advisor.
The academic advisor will explain which courses you may need to complete for admission to the BECE program
http://www.coe.fau.edu/OASS/contact.htm
Step 5: Complete lower Tier courses at Palm Beach State College to meet Math, Natural Science & Foreign
Language degree requirements. Please note, that depending on which Palm Beach State catalog you follow, you may have
additional courses to complete. Also, the foreign language requirement can be satisfied by high school Tier study.
English Requirement
Math Requirement
Natural Science
Requirement
Foreign Language
Requirement
ENC1102 is required for
students who completed
their Palm Beach State
College AS Degree in Early
Childhood Education under
the 2005-06 catalog or
earlier
6 additional college
credits beyond AS
degree requirement
3 to 6 additional college
credits beyond AS
degree requirement
This requirement may be
completed by 2 years of High
School Language, adequate
CLEP scores or 8-10 credits of
college Tier courses
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College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Math Course Options
http://www.pbcc.edu/documents/Math/Math-Flowchart.pdf
Choose
2
courses
from
this list
Choose
2 courses
from this
list
AND
94 | P a g e
College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Natural Science Options*
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3222.xml?id=100
* Please consult an FAU College of Education academic advisor to assist in choosing a natural science course
AND
95 | P a g e
College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Bachelor Degree in Early Care & Education (BECE)
Foreign Language Requirement:
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3222.xml?id=100
Complete 2
courses/8
credits in
FRENCH or
Complete 2
courses/8
credits in
GERMAN
or
Complete 2
courses/8
credits in
SPANISH
96 | P a g e
College Credit Certificates & Degrees
Step 6: Complete the Transfer Admissions process to FAU
http://www.fau.edu/admissions/transfer.php
Step 7: Register for courses. Review your course selection choices for both BECE degree courses and the Math and Sciences
required courses with your FAU Academic Advisor prior to registration
http://www.fau.edu/registrar/schedule/
97 | P a g e
CHOOSING
A COLLEGE
OR
UNIVERSITY
98 | P a g e
Choosing a College or University
How to choose a college or university
Students are strongly encouraged to pursue their formal path college credit courses through numerous
accredited Florida and online colleges and universities. Before deciding which college program best meets
your educational needs, please consult the Florida Department of Education website to better understand
your options.
http://www.fldoe.org/cie/help_choosing.asp
S.E.E.K Scholarship
Practitioners enrolling in regionally accredited colleges or universities (other than PBSC or FAU) will be
reimbursed for tuition up to the local State college or university tuition rate, as applicable, and determined by
the course level (associate or bachelor) Only required textbooks and materials are eligible for reimbursement.
All coursework must be successfully completed with a grade of A, B, or C to receive reimbursement.
Practitioner will be responsible for all other costs associated with enrollment. Pre-approval required prior to
enrollment. All SEEK Scholarship policies related to reimbursement must be followed.
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Choosing a College or University
Finding an Accredited College or University Program
The only college credits that are accepted at all accredited colleges and universities operating in the state of
Florida are regionally accredited college credits. Below is a list of all regionally accredited colleges and
universities throughout the United States.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Middle States Commission on Higher Education - http://www.msche.org
New England Association of Schools and Colleges - http://www.neasc.org
North Central Association of College and Schools - http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities - http://www.nwccu.org
Southern Association of College and Schools - http://www.sacscoc.org
Western Association of Schools and Colleges - http://www.wascweb.org & http://www.accjc.org
Additionally, the search engine below offers a comprehensive database of all U.S. Department of Education
approved institutions of higher education (colleges and universities) and their type of accreditation.
http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/Search.aspx
100 | P a g e
Choosing a College or University
Palm Beach County Colleges & Universities
While this guide has emphasized pursuing the formal pathway by learning at Palm Beach State College, there
are additional regionally accredited institutions throughout Palm Beach County, Florida that offer
formal/credit early childhood education opportunities. In particular, there are four regionally accredited
higher education institutions that offer early childhood education bachelor degree programs.
101 | P a g e
DCF
DIRECTOR
CREDENTIAL
102 | P a g e
DCF Director Credential
Introduction
Directing an early childhood site is a demanding position. It requires a broad array of skills and knowledge in
not only child development and early learning methods, but program management as well. There is a growing
demand that childcare site directors are well trained and credentialed. To meet this challenge, the Florida
Legislature revised childcare licensing standards in 1999 to mandate that childcare site directors possess a DCF
Director Credential. DCF created a renewable Director Credential that reflects different Tiers of educational
and work experience. There are three Director Credential Tiers – Tier I, Tier II, and Advanced. Starting on
January 1, 2005, all childcare sites are required to have a site director credentialed at one of these three Tiers.
A Director Credential is valid for five years from the issue date.
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DCF Director Credential
Director Credential Approved Courses
http://ccrain.fl-dcf.org/documents/-99/555.pdf#page=1
Institution
Ref #
Course Title
Credit CEUs Spanish
Contact Information
Broward
College
CHD2800
Administration &
Management in ECE
3
No
www.broward.edu
954-201-2273
Florida
League of
Christian
Schools
EDUC2433 Child Care Center
& 2443
Management
3
4.5
No
863-683-5726 x250
Gainesville
College
(National
Administrator
Credential)
ECDV2110
3
4.5
Yes
800-543-7161
www.nccanet.org
Nova
Southeastern
University
EDUC2260 Administration of
& ECA270 Child Care &
Education Programs
3
4.5
MiamiLakes Site
954-262-6934
Palm Beach
Atlantic
University
EDU2113
3
No
561-803-2352
Palm Beach
State College
EEC1523
Foundations of
Child Care &
Education and
Program
Administration
Overview of Child
Care Center
Management
3
No
www.palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3305
Child Care Center
Operations
Voc.
Credits
Sheridan Tech V200206
Program
Administration/
National
Administrator
Credential
104 | P a g e
754-321-5486
DCF Director Credential
Two Additional Child Care Center Management Courses
This educational requirement for the advanced director’s credential can be completed at a local community or
state college such as Palm Beach State College. For admissions and registration information, refer to the
“Pantherweb” and “Admissions” section of the Career Compass.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6868.xml?id=EEC2002
AND/OR
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6868.xml?id=EEC2521
AND/OR
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6868.xml?id=EEC2202
105 | P a g e
ENGLISH
FOR
SPEAKERS
OF OTHER
LANGUAGES
(ESOL)
106 | P a g e
ESOL: English for Speakers of Other Languages
Overview
There are 3 recommended options for students interested in advancing their English language skills in Palm
Beach County.
1. ESOL Program provided by the School District of Palm Beach County
2. Non-Credit ESOL Program provided by Palm Beach State College’s Corporate & Continuing Education
Division
3. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) provided by Palm Beach State College
Información General
En el condado de Palm Beach, los estudiantes interesados en aprender y mejorara sus habilidades de
comunicación y escritura en el idioma del inglés tienen 3 opciones disponibles. Estas opciones son:
1. El Programa de ESOL dado a través del School District of Palm Beach County,
2. El Programa de ESOL de No-Crédito que es dado a través de Corporate and Continuing Education
Division de Palm Beach State College,
3. Inglés para Propósitos Académicos (EAP) dado a través de Palm Beach State College.
107 | P a g e
First Option: ESOL through the School District of Palm Beach County
For students who are at an early stage of English language acquisition, we suggest that practitioners take
advantage of the no-cost ESOL program run through The School District of Palm Beach County.
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/esol/index.asp
108 | P a g e
Primera Opción: ESOL dado a través del School District of Palm Beach
County
Para estudiantes que están en la primera etapa de adquisición del idioma, Nosotros sugerimos que los
participantes tomen ventaja de este programa gratis de ESOL que es dado a través del School District of Palm
Beach County.
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/ace/esol/index.asp
109 | P a g e
Second Option: Non-Credit ESOL through Corporate and Continuing
Education Division of Palm Beach State College
Introduction
The Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) division of the college offers a non-credit ESOL program. CCE
offers non-credit courses for students who, according to the Palm Beach State College website, “want to
improve everyday conversational skills at home, in the workplace, or in your everyday life, and you are seeking
a college or university degree…” The courses in this program have the Course ID prefix of BEO.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3631.xml
110 | P a g e
Second Option: Non-Credit ESOL through Corporate and Continuing
Education Division of Palm Beach State College
Non- Credit ESOL Program Admissions, Testing & Registration
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x16518.xml
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Segunda Opción: ESOL de No-Crédito dado a través de Corporate and
Continuing Education Division de Palm Beach State College
Introducción
La división del programa de Educación Continuada (Corporate and Continuing Education - CCE) del Palm
Beach State College ofrece un programa de ESOL de no-crédito. CCE ofrece cursos de no-crédito a estudiantes
que, de acuerdo a la página de web de Palm Beach State College, “quieren mejorar sus habilidades de
conversación diaria en la casa, en el trabajo, o en sus vidas cotidianas, y están buscando una carrera
universitaria…” Los cursos en este programa tienen el prefijo de identificación de curso de BEO.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6649.xml
112 | P a g e
Segunda Opción: ESOL de No-Crédito dado a través de Corporate and
Continuing Education Division de Palm Beach State College
Información de Inscripción, Matricula y Prueba para el Programa de ESOL de No-Crédito
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x16518.xml
113 | P a g e
Third Option: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) through Palm
Beach State College
Introduction
Palm Beach State College offer an ESOL program that prepares non-native speakers who want to pursue a
college degree or certificate and need a program that develops their knowledge and skills in academic reading,
writing, speaking and listening. The courses in this program have the Course ID prefix of EAP (English for
Academic Purposes).
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3628.xml
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Third Option: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) through Palm
Beach State College
EAP Program & Testing Options
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Third Option: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) through Palm
Beach State College
EAP Admissions Process
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3551.xml
116 | P a g e
Tercera Opción: Inglés para Propósitos Académicos dado a través de
Palm Beach State College
Introducción
Palm Beach State College ofrece un programa de ESOL que prepara a personas cuyo idioma nativo no es el
inglés y quieren obtener un certificado o una licenciatura universitaria y necesitan un programa que les ayude
a desarrollar sus habilidades y destrezas de lectura, escritura y conversación. Los cursos en este programa
tienen el prefijo de identificación de curso de EAP (Inglés para Propósitos Académicos)
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6642.xml
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Tercera Opción: Inglés para Propósitos Académicos dado a través de
Palm Beach State College
Programa EAP y Opciónes de Prueba
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Tercera Opción: Inglés para Propósitos Académicos dado a través de
Palm Beach State College
Proceso de Ingreso al Programa EAP
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3551.xml
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ESOL: Which ESOL Program at Palm Beach State is right for me?
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3547.xml
120 | P a g e
ESOL: ¿Cual Programa de ESOL del Palm Beach State College me sirve a
mi?
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3547.xml
121 | P a g e
ESOL: Palm Beach State College Options
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that students have when trying to decide which program is right for them.
What is EAP?
English for Academic Purposes is an English program for speakers of other languages. The program is designed to bring
English skills to a Tier that will help students be successful in college courses. EAP is designed for students who have some
background in English and who seek a college degree.
What is ESOL?
These ESOL classes offered through the Language Connections Institute (LCI), which is part of Corporate and Continuing
Education, are designed for non-native speakers of English. These courses are designed to improve the oral communication
and overall fluency, as well as to facilitate the acquisition of idiomatic and conversational vocabulary of non-native
speakers of English in the workplace. The classes are designed for people who do not seek a degree.
What is ESOL for Child Care Workers?
These ESOL classes offered through Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) are designed for non-native speakers of
English. These courses are specifically designed to teach English to those who are in the child care field. Familiar
terminology will be used to improve students' reading, listening, and speaking skills. Participants will learn English as well
as vocabulary and conversation for child care. The classes are designed for people who do not seek a degree.
What do I need to enter the EAP program?
You need to have a high school diploma, or GED and a completed application form. If you are transferring from another
college or university, an official copy of your transcripts are required. Click this LINK for more information about
transcripts.
What do I need to enter the CCE program?
A completed application form. Click this LINK to download a Non-Credit Application/Registration Form.
Even though I am not interested in getting a degree, can I still take EAP courses?
Yes. Many students in the program already have degrees but wish to take EAP for professional development.
How long will it take to complete the EAP program?
This depends on your Tier at the time of entering the program. It also depends on how many courses you take per
semester.
How long will I need to take EAP courses before I am eligible to enroll in a degree program?
You must complete EAP1620 Advanced Reading and EAP1684 Advanced English Writing, which both require the student to
pass State Exit Exams, before you can enroll in a degree program
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ESOL: Opciones de ESOL de Palm Beach State College
Preguntas que se hacen con Frecuencia
Aquí están algunas preguntas que hacen los estudiantes para decidir qué programa les sirve.
¿Qué es EAP?
Inglés para Propósitos Académicos es un programa de inglés para hablantes de otros idiomas. El programa está diseñado para
desarrollar el inglés del estudiante al nivel que le permitirá tener éxito en sus clases universitarias. EAP está diseñado para
estudiantes que tienen ya algún conocimiento de inglés y que buscan una carrera universitaria.
¿Qué es ESOL?
Estas clases de ESOL (inglés como segundo idioma) de Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) (programa de capacitación
para personas del campo laboral) están diseñadas para personas cuyo idioma nativo no es el inglés. Estos cursos están
diseñados para mejorar la comunicación oral y la fluidez oral en general, al igual que para facilitar la adquisición un
vocabulario idiomático y conversacional de aquellas personas cuyo idioma nativo no es el inglés. Las clases son diseñadas para
personas que no buscan carrera universitaria. Vaya a esta página web para más información sobre el programa.
¿Qué es ESOL para los Trabajadores en el Campo del Cuidado de Niños?
Estas clases de ESOL (inglés como segundo idioma) del Language Connections Institute (LCI) y Corporate and Continuing
Education (CCE) (programa de capacitación para personas del campo laboral) están diseñadas para personas cuyo idioma
nativo no es el inglés. Estos cursos están diseñados especialmente para enseñarles inglés a aquellas personas que trabajan en
el campo del cuidado de niños. Se utilizará terminología conocida para mejorar las destrezas del inglés leído, oído y hablado de
los estudiantes. Los participantes aprenderán inglés al igual que vocabulario y comunicación, las cuales son necesarias para el
campo del cuidado de los niños. Las clases están diseñadas para personas que no buscan una carrera universitaria. Vaya a esta
página web (http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3554.xml) para más información sobre él una programa.
¿Qué necesito para inscribirme en el Programa EAP? (Inglés para Propósitos Académicos)
Necesita un diploma de la escuela secundaria, o una certificación GED y llenar completamente el formulario de solicitud. Si
usted se está transfiriéndose de otra universidad, se requiere una copia oficial de sus cursos realizados con notas académicas.
Vaya a la página web (http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/eap/transcript20to20PBCC.pdf) para bajar una solicitud
de transferencia de cursos realizados. Vaya a la página web (http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/transcripts.xml) para más
información sobre las copias oficiales de los cursos que usted ha realizado.
¿Qué necesito para inscribirme en el programa CCE? (Capacitación para personas del campo laboral)
Necesita llenar completamente un formulario de solicitud. Vaya a la página web
(http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/english/non_credit_app.pdf) para bajar el formulario de solicitud de cursos sin
crédito.
Aunque no esté interesado en obtener una carrera, ¿puedo tomar los cursos EAP? (Inglés para propósitos académicos)
Sí. Muchos estudiantes que participan en el programa ya tienen carreras, pero desean tomar EAP para su desarrollo
profesional.
¿Cuánto tiempo me tomará completar el programa EAP?
Eso depende de su nivel de inglés en el momento de comenzar el programa. También depende de cuantos cursos usted tome
por semestre.
¿Por cuánto tiempo necesitaré tomar cursos EAP antes de poder inscribirme en un programa de carrera?
Usted debe completar EAP1620 Lectura Avanzada y EAP1684 Inglés Avanzado (Escritura Avanzada en Inglés), antes de que
usted pueda inscribirse en un programa de carrera. Ambos cursos requieren que el estudiante apruebe exámenes estatales de
finalización.
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PALM BEACH COUNTY
EARLY CHILDHOOD
REGISTRY
124 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry
Introduction
The PBC Registry System is funded by the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County and is
administered by Palm Beach State College. The PBC Registry consists of the Early Childhood Practitioner
Registry, the Trainer/Training Registry, and the Registry website. The PBC Registry collects, verifies, and utilizes
a variety of data about early childhood professionals and those who provide training to the professionals who
work directly with children. Data is used for program, implementation, research support, and policy
development. The PBC Registry is located at the Palm Beach State College’s Institute of Excellence in Early
Care and Education. Registry Coaches regularly review practitioner and training applications and verify high
school and college transcripts, early childhood credentials, and training certificates. The registry coaches are
available to meet one on one with site directors and answer practitioner questions. They can assist
practitioners with Registry verification questions or how to access your Registry report information.
http://www.pbcregistry.org/contact.asp
Staff Name
Staff Title
Staff Phone #
Staff Email
Edwiygh Franck
Registry Coordinator
561-868-3664
francke@palmbeachstate.edu
Molly Wensell
Registry Coordinator
561-868-3671
wensellm@palmbeachstate.edu
Eugenia DePalma
Registry Coach
561-868-3965
depalmae@palmbeacstate.edu
Nicole Rice
Registry Coach
561-868-3673
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
125 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Application
Early Childhood Registry Practitioner Application – Page 1
Please
write
neatly.
Don’t
forget to
keep last
name
consistent
with your
DCF
records
and Palm
Beach
Don’t forget
to include
the exact
date you
started
employmen
t
126 | P a g e
Make
sure to
write the
last 5
digits of
your
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Application
Early Childhood Registry Practitioner Application – Page 2
In order for
Registry staff
to verify your
achievements
, make sure
to submit:
your high
school
diploma or
GED, college
transcripts,
DCF
transcript
(not
certificates),
and various
credential
In order for
Registry staff
to verify your
achievements
, make sure
to submit:
your high
school
diploma, or
GED, college
transcripts,
DCF
transcript
(not
certificates),
and various
credential
127 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Application
Early Childhood Registry Practitioner Application – Page 3
Don’t
forget to
print, sign,
and date
your
128 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
How to Create a Registry Account/Login
www.pbcregistry.org
Step 1: Click on Practitioner Login under the Login Tab
Click Here
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Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Step 2: Click on Set-up under the First Time Here column
Click Here
Step 3: Fill in the four boxes below
Fill in all boxes
130 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Example
Example
Step 4: Click on Find Me
Click Here
131 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Step 5: Click on the yes button
Click Here
Step 6: Click on the Continue Button
Click Here
132 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Step 7: Fill in your Palm Beach State College email address or personal email address
(if it is not already populated in the box below)
Fill in email
address
Step 8: Click continue
Example
Click Here
133 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Step 9: Read the confirmation message*
*If you used your personal email, please access your email account to retrieve the information you need to log
into the Registry website. If you used your Palm Beach State College email address, please follow the
directions below:
Read
Confirmation message
134 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Go to the Quick Links section of the PantherWeb home page
https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/pantherweb.xml
Quick Links
Section
Click on “my.Palm Beach State College Email” Account
Click Here
135 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Click on your Inbox
Click Here
Click on The Registry email
Click
Here
OR
136 | P a g e
Click
Here
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Read the email message informing you of your password
Password
Return to the registry website
Click
Here
137 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Click on the Log-in button
Click
Here
Fill in your email address & password* and then Click Login
*If you prefer to create a more memorable registry password, call the Early Childhood Registry office at 561-868-3671
Fill in both boxes
138 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Creating a Registry Account
Example
Example
139 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Report
Choose a format (Acrobat (PDF)), and click “Export”
Click Here
Click “Open” if you want to view the report immediately or “Save” if you want to save the report
Click Open
Click the “Print” icon to print your report
Click Open
140 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Report
Sample Practitioner Report
This is the date
that a
practitioner
started at
facility. It’s not
necessarily the
date that a
practitioner
started current
position
Use this # on
all of your
S.E.E.K
Applications
DNE = Does
Not Expire. This
applies to a
Staff Credential
attained
through the
DCF Waiver
Process (e.g.
formal
education or
work
Combined,
this is the DCF
40 Hour
Certification +
5 Hour
Date credential
verified by DCF
The credential
expires on this
date
Two of the
three types
of
Director’s
Credentials
Total number
of college
credits
verified by
Registry from
transcript
EC = Early Childhood Credits or
Child Development Credits
verified by transcript submitted
to the Registry
141 | P a g e
This is
recognition of
12 ECE Credit
Quality
Counts
Benchmark
Early Childhood Registry: Practitioner Report
Sample Practitioner Report – Page 2
This is a
conference
and it will
count only
toward 50
points
This event is
registry
verified, but
will not
count
toward any
+
indicates
that
training
only
counts
d
CEUs can be
used to
renew Natl.
CDA/ECPC
FCCPC/
CDA-E
Count
toward
both 50
points &
45
informal
ECE hours
This is an
ECE credit
course,
which
counts
toward 3
ECE credit
hour
benchmar
k
This event
is registry
verified and
will not
count
toward any
benchmark
or CEUs
Professional Membership
counts as 1 additional
point towards the “50
point” benchmark
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Early Childhood Registry: Update Form
Sample Registry Update Form
143 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Training Event Calendar
The trainings listed in the chart above are just a sample of popular Registry Approved training offerings. In
order for practitioners to find the training that addresses the targeted core competency they seek to improve
upon, please discuss upcoming training options available with your Career Advisor and review the following
websites.
Step 1: Go to the Registry Website
http://www.pbcregistry.org
144 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Training Event Calendar
Step 2: Go to the “Search for Training” Menu
http://www.pbcregistry.org
Step 3: Click on Registry-Approved
http://www.pbcregistry.org/ftr/default.asp
145 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Training Event Calendar
Step 4: Fill in one or more search boxes to narrow your training search based on “keyword”, “city”, “date”,
“topic or core knowledge area” or simply click “Search”
http://www.pbcregistry.org/ftr/default.asp
EXAMPLE
Step 5: Review the Search Results
146 | P a g e
Early Childhood Registry: Training Event Calendar
Registry Training Event Calendar
Step 6: Choose a training to explore further by clicking on the title
Click
Here
Step 7: Learn more information about the training: description, time, date, location, level, target, contact
147 | P a g e
SCHOLARSHIPS
& AWARDS
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T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program
Introduction
The Teacher Education and Compensation Helps (T.E.A.C.H.) Early Childhood® Scholarship Program provides
scholarships for early care educators and center directors to work towards earning an Associate's degree or
credentials in early childhood education. It is funded by the Agency for Workforce Innovation Office of Early
Learning and involves a three-way financial partnership between the caregiver receiving the scholarship, the
sponsoring child care center or family child care home and T.E.A.C.H. The majority of tuition and books costs
are paid for and most T.E.A.C.H. participants receive a per-semester stipend for travel or for internet access as
well as a bonus for caregivers and directors who complete their scholarship contract.
To help you think about and choose a college, view the Directory of College Degree Programs. The Directory
provides information on Florida's public state/community colleges offering courses leading to credentials and
degrees in early childhood. For more information, please call 877-FL-TEACH.
TeachQuestions@thechildrensforum.com
http://www.thechildrensforum.com/teach.php
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T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program
Who is eligible for a scholarship?
Child care center teachers, directors, owners & family childcare providers may be eligible for a scholarship if:
•
Are Florida residents
•
Have a high school diploma or GED
•
Work in a licensed or license-exempt early child care facility, in
a licensed or registered family child care home
•
Work a minimum of 20 hours per week in a classroom with a
birth through Pre-K population (directors are exempt from “classroom” portion of this requirement)
•
Have the sponsorship of the facility or family child care home which employs them
•
Work a minimum of 520 hours per year
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T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program
Scholarship Options
 Associate degree in Early Childhood Education
 Child Development Associate (CDA) credential (otherwise known as CDA National)
 Florida Staff Credential
• Birth through Five Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC)
• Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC)
• Childcare Apprenticeship Certificate
 Director Credential
151 | P a g e
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program
Frequently Asked Questions:
http://www.thechildrensforum.com/teach-faq.php
T.E.A.C.H. English Brochure:
http://www.thechildrensforum.com/downloads/teach/TEACH%20English%20brochure.pdf
T.E.A.C.H. Spanish Brochure:
http://www.thechildrensforum.com/downloads/teach/TEACH%20Spanish%20brochure.pdf
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S.E.E.K: Scholarship Overview
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4264.xml
153 | P a g e
S.E.E.K: Eligibility & Application Process
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4820.xml
154 | P a g e
S.E.E.K: Contact Information
The S.E.E.K Scholarship program is administered by the career advising staff that is located at the Palm Beach
State College Institute of Excellence in Early Care and Education (IEECE)
812 Fern Street, West Palm Beach, 33401
Please contact the IECCE regarding the S.E.E.K Scholarship program. If you are unable to reach your assigned
career advisor, you may contact the team coordinator listed below. If you are unsure of the name of your
assigned career advisor, please contact our general office number 561-868-3662
For additional information about the S.E.E.K scholarship program, please visit our website at:
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/Documents/Institute_of_Excellence/SEEK_Scholarship_Contact_Informat
ion
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S.E.E.K: POLICY UPDATES
SEEK ALERTS
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x18720.xml
156 | P a g e
S.E.E.K: AWARDS
Translation and Evaluation of Foreign Degrees
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4814.xml
157 | P a g e
S.E.E.K: AWARDS
Education Incentive Awards (EIA)
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4814.xml
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S.E.E.K: AWARDS
Informal Training Incentive Awards (ITIA)
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4814.xml
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The Child Care WAGE$ Florida Project
Overview
The Child Care WAGE$ Florida Project, commonly referred simply as WAGE$, provides a salary/wage
supplement to Palm Beach County child care practitioners working directly with children in a licensed early
childhood program that participates in the Quality Counts program. Practitioners must maintain continuous
employment with the same Quality Counts site for a minimum of 1 year, work at least 20 hours directly with
children ages 0-5 and earn less than $14.00 per hour in their Quality Counts site childcare position. For further
information on the WAGE$ project and to obtain an application, contact your Career Advisor.
WAGE$ Supplement Scale
www.wages-fl.com
TIER
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1*
LEAD TEACHER, ASSOCIATE TEACHER,
FAMILY CHILD CARE PROVIDER
• Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child
Development (CD)
• Bachelor Degree in related field + at least 24 ECE/CD Credits
• Bachelor Degree in related field + at least 18 ECE/CD Credits
• 90 credits toward Bachelor Degree in ECE/CD
• Associate Degree in ECE or CD
• Associate Degree in any field + at least 30 credits in ECE or CD
• Bachelor Degree with non-ECE or non-CD major
• 45 credits toward an Associate Degree in ECE or CD
• 45 credits in related field + at least 18 credits in ECE or CD
• Early Childhood Certificate
• Associate Degree with non-ECE or non-CD major
• At least 70 credits of well-rounded “C” grade or above coursework (2.0
GPA)
• 36 credits toward an Associate Degree in ECE or CD
• 36 credits in related field + at least 12 credits in ECE or CD
• 36 credits in related filed + a CDA National or Director Credential + Staff
Credential
• 24 credits toward an Associate Degree in ECE or CD
• 12 Credits in ECE or CD
• CDA National
• Director Credential + Florida Staff Credential
• Florida Staff Credential
• 6 credits in ECE or CD
ANNUAL
SUPPLEMENT
$3000
$2,250
$1,500
$1,125
$750
$600
$450
$200
*Funding for Tier 1 is temporary. Teachers awarded at Tier 1 must obtain Tier 2 within two years in order to retain eligibility. Family
Child Care Providers must reach Tier 2 within three years for continued funding. Please contact the Child Care WAGE$ Florida Project
with any questions at 888-FLCHILD.
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PANTHERWEB
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PantherWeb: Introduction
PantherWeb is Palm Beach State College’s online Student Services tool. PantherWeb provides students the
ability to register, change classes, pay tuition, view their transcripts and degree audits as well as change
personal information.
Go to www.palmbeachstate.edu, click on PantherWeb
Log - on to www.palmbeachstate.edu/PantherWeb.xml
•
Type your Student ID#. If you do not know your number, you can find it on the back of your
PantherCard (ID) or use your Social Security # (optional)
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PantherWeb: Introduction
Type your PIN (personal identification number). https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/PantherWeb.xml
•
If you have never used your PIN before, you will use a default PIN. Your default pin is the first 2 digits
of your month of birth followed by the last 2 digits of your year of birth. For example if you are born on
June 9, 1972, you default PIN would be 0672
Click Logon. https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/PantherWeb.xml
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
Before beginning the process of course registration, consult the Academic and Registration Calendar for
important deadlines and key dates
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x328.xml
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
Go to Quick Links and view menu of PantherWeb options. Choose the first option on the top left corner called
Add/Drop Classes
Select the term from the drop down list (e.g. Summer Term 2010). Click on Select Term
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
You may select a specific Campus. (The Historic Building is considered Lake Worth Campus when choosing
campus location)
Search for Open Classes. Enter up to 10 Course IDs (e.g., EEC1523, MAT0020, BEO0088, HEO0115, and
HEV0130)
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
Click Search Now
All Available courses will be listed.
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
Understanding Course listings
This
letter is
the day
of the
week.
R=
Thursda
Reference
Course
Start &
End
Course
campus
location
Start &
End Date
Course
building
&
classroom
Historic
Building
is located
in West
Palm
Beach,
not Lake
Worth.
Historic
Building
is
associate
d with the
Lake
Number
of seats
remainin
If you click on the magnifying
glass, you can get more detailed
information about the class,
including a course description.
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PantherWeb: Course Registration
Click on the reference # when you are ready to register for the course
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
OR
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
Go to the Quick Links section of the PantherWeb home page
Click on my.Palm Beach State College Email Account
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
Fill in the 8 characters from the picture
Press continue
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
Click on your inbox to view email messages.
Click on the email message
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
Click on home page to explore different menu options available in your email account
Explore your new email account options
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PantherWeb: Student Email Account
Sign out of your email account
Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x14985.xml
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PALM BEACH STATE
COLLEGE
STUDENT SERVICES
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Admissions: Admissions Procedures
College Credit & PSAV Students
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3604.xml
Non-Credit Students
https://webservices1.palmbeachstate.edu/FCCSC/student/noncredit/application.jsp?ssn=yes
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Introduction
Completing the admissions process for a PSAV (ECPC, FCCPC) or Credit (College Credit Certificate, AS Degree)
program at Palm Beach State College, requires a student to submit an official high school/GED transcript and if
applicable, an official college transcript, as indicated on their admissions application. An unofficial transcript
will not be accepted as evidence that a student completed her high school diploma/GED or college degree. An
official transcript is a transcript sent directly to Palm Beach State College from the institution that granted the
high school diploma, GED or college degree; it is not a photocopy of a transcript a student has received or an
official transcript which the student submits to the Palm Beach State admissions office.
Requesting a Transcript: General Information
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Submitting A High School/GED or College Transcript to Palm Beach State College
Option 1: For Any Accredited US High School/GED or College Transcript
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/transcripttopalmbeachstate.pdf
OR
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Submitting A High School or College Transcript to Palm Beach State College
Option 2: for Graduates of a Palm Beach County Public Schools
http://www.palmbeachschools.org/forms/documents/1457.pdf
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Submitting an Official Florida GED Transcript
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/floridagedtranscript.pdf
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Non – U.S. High School Diploma
Students with out-of-country high school credentials must provide proof of high school completion (based
on Palm Beach State College’s evaluation). Contact the International Admissions Office to schedule a time to
review your international high school transcript.
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6765.xml
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Admissions: Transcript Requests
Non – U.S. College Transcripts
Original records are not required. Students who attended college outside of the United States will also need to
submit a course-by-course commercial evaluation to Palm Beach State College. The link below will connect
you to a list of approved agencies identified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services
(NACES).
http://www.naces.org/members.htm
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Admissions: Program Objective Codes (POC)
Introduction
Program Objective Codes (POCs) track a student’s program of study – whether it is a PSAV program, non-credit
courses, a certificate or degree program or even if a student is simply taking courses for personal
improvement. When choosing a POC on your college application or adding a new POC, a student “locks in” a
program of study for the catalog year in which the POC change was made. Subsequently, students will need to
follow the program of study outlined in that year’s college catalog to complete their program. Since students
have many different early childhood POCs from which to choose, it is highly recommended that students
discuss their POC decision with their career advisor prior to completing their college application or Change
of POC form (see page below).
Early Childhood Program Objective Codes (POC)
PSAV
CCC
(Post Secondary Adult
Vocational)
(College Credit
Certification)
ECPC
Child Care Center
Management
5364
FCCPC
(Caring for Children
Birth to 3 Years)
5390
6366
Infant/Toddler
Certificate
6367
Preschool
Certificate
6368
Child Care Birth to
Age 3
5348
High/Scope
Certificate
6388
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AS
(Associate of Science
Degree)
Early Childhood
Education:
High/Scope
Approach
2360
Early Childhood
Education
2358
Admissions: Program Objective Codes (POC)
Changing Your Program Objective Code (POC)
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/documents/admissions/programobjectivechange.pdf
Student ID
is located
on back of
student ID
card
Consult
your
Career
Advisor
prior to
completing
Use this
section to
add a new
Program
Objective
Code (POC)
Career
Advisor
does
not sign
this
optiona
l
Do not
fill in
this
sectio
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Bookstore
 Bookstore: General Information
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/bookstore.xml
 Bookstore: Textbook Information
http://www.efollett.com/Home/10001-15028-1?demoKey=d
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Bookstore
 Bookstore: Textbook Information
http://www.bkstr.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StoreCatalogDisplay?catalogId=10001&lang
Id=-1&demoKey=d&storeId=10508
 Bookstore: Textbook Information
http://www.bkstr.com/CategoryDisplay/10001-9604-10508-1?demoKey=d
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Cashier’s Office
 Cashier’s Office: General Information
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/cashiers.xml

Tuition & Fees
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x3928.xml
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Student Learning Center
 Student Learning Center: General Information
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x1084.xml
 Student Resources
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4749.xml
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Student Learning Center
 Math Lab: General Information
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x4769.xml
 Math Lab: Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x18329.xml
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Student Learning Center
Math Lab: Succeeding in Prep Math
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/Documents/Testing_Center/Math_Prep.pdf
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Testing Center
 Testing Center – Locations & General Information
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x473.xml
 Test Preparation – Overview
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6838.xml
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Testing Center
 Test of Adult Basic Education – TABE
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x19326.xml
 College Placement Test – PERT
http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x20333.xml
 English as a Second Language Test –COMPASS
http://www.act.org/compass/student/index.html
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APPENDIX
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Appendix A: Commonly Used Websites
Agency for Workforce Innovation: Office of Early Learning http://www.floridajobs.org/earlylearning/index.html
Children’s Services Council - http://www.cscpbc.org/bequality
Council for Professional Recognition (National CDA website) - http://www.cdacouncil.org
Department of Children & Families (DCF) - http://www.myflorida.com/childcare
FACTS.org – www.facts.org
Family Central Inc.
Training Academy - http://www.familycentral.org/MDTrainingAcademy
Quality Counts Services http://www.familycentral.org/PBQualityCounts
Florida Atlantic University College of Education – www.coe.fau.edu
Florida Department of Education – www.fldoe.org
Palm Beach School District Adult Education Centerhttp://www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/adultedcenter/index.htm
Palm Beach County Early Childhood Registry http://www.pbcregistry.org
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Appendix A: Commonly Used Websites
Palm Beach State College
Admissions & Registration http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x1280.xml
Belle Glade Campus – Frequently Called Phone Numbers http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x358.xml
Boca Campus – Frequently Called Phone Numbers http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x359.xml
Bookstore - http://www.efollett.com/Home/10001-15028-1?demoKey=d
Early Childhood Education Programs - http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x6111.xml
Institute of Excellence in Early Care & Education (IEECE) - http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/ieece.xml
IEECE Training for Early Childhood Professionals - http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x16792.xml
Lake Worth Campus – Frequently Called Phone Numbers http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x360.xml
Eissey Campus – Frequently Called Phone Numbers http://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x361.xml
PantherWeb - https://www.palmbeachstate.edu/x5687.xml
The Children’s Forum
WAGE$ Program http://www.wages-fl.com
T.E.A.C.H Scholarship http://www.thechildrensforum.com/teach.php
The School District of Palm Beach County
Early Childhood Department http://palmbeachschools.org/preschool
ESOL Program http://www.pbceducator.net/esol
High School Transcript Request http://www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/Records/PDF/1457.pdf
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Appendix B: Glossary of Terms
Term
Definition
Credit/Non-credit
Classes
Credit courses are those college or university courses that apply toward a certificate
or degree program or are those courses that prepare students (“Prep” Courses) for
the courses that apply toward a certificate or degree program.
A Non-Credit course refers to a Registry Approved Palm Beach State College early
childhood course that is offered as a series training in various subject areas and that
provides CEUs (continuing education units) on completion.
Director
For the purposes of this document, the term is selected to describe the role of the
staff person or the team responsible for the day-to-day operations, supervision, and
administration of the program and for planning, implementing, and evaluating.
ECPC
Early Childhood
Professional Certificate
The Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) credential is a Birth through Five
Child Care Credential issued by the Florida Department of Education and
recognized as a Staff Credential. It consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early
childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through five.
Bottom Line: The ECPC certificate attained at the end of this course can be used to
earn a Florida Child Care Staff Credential.
ELC
Early Learning Coach
Early Learning Coach is a School District Employee OR Early Learning Coalition. In this
program, it is usually referencing the “Coach,” or employee from the School District
supporting a center in this rating process.
Early Learning Coaches are certified teachers employed by the School District of
Palm Beach County. Each coach has a degree in Early Childhood Education and
specialized training in quality improvement and consultation. Initially, the coach will
spend time learning about the culture of the program and building relationships with
the director and staff. The coach will work with providers to develop and implement
quality improvement plans that focus on the Six Pathways to Quality. The coach’s
role includes modeling, scaffolding, demonstration lessons, plan development, and
observation and feedback.
Family Central Inc.
Family Central’s mission is to promote children’s success by providing quality family
support and educational services. Family Central conducts the Quality Counts Early
Learning Coaching for Family Child Care Homes as well as administers the county’s
child care subsidy funds.
Florida Child Care
Professional Credential
The Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) is a Birth through Five Child
Care Credential issued by the Florida Department of Children & Families and
recognized as a Staff Credential. It consists of a minimum of 120 hours of early
childhood instruction, 480 contact hours with children ages birth through five.
Bottom Line: The FCCPC certificate attained at the end of this course can be used to
earn a Florida Child Care Staff Credential
Formal and Informal
Training
Formal Training refers to Early Childhood Education credit courses offered by colleges
and universities. Informal Training refers to various early childhood trainings such as
non-credit courses, registry approved trainings, DOE and DCF trainings, local
conferences, and online trainings (IACET approved CEUs).
Bottom Line: Practitioners are strongly encouraged to pursue early childhood courses
from regionally accredited colleges for formal training and Registry ApprovedQuality Assured trainings for informal training.
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Appendix B: Glossary of Terms
Term
Definition
Intensive Phase
This is the 18-month period starting after the completion of a site baseline assessment.
This phase includes the program director/staff, career advisor and early learning
coach working toward establishing goals and benchmarks, intensive on-site
coaching, and individual career advising. An Early Learning Coach could be
supporting the program in this phase for up to 2 days per week.
Bottom Line: a program’s first 18 months in QC
IPDP
Individual Professional
Development Plan
An educational planning tool used by Palm Beach State College Career Advisors to
assist practitioners in planning their career and educational goals and the action
steps needed to accomplish those goals.
ITIA: Informal Training
Incentive Award
The ITIA is a monetary award program for practitioners employed at Quality Counts
programs in Palm Beach County who work directly with children from birth to age
five. The ITIA is awarded annually to qualifying Quality Counts participants who
complete the preschool or infant/toddler non-credit course track.
Bottom Line: Annual bonus awarded for professional training accomplishments
Maintenance Phase
The review of the formal assessment with the program director and early learning
coach begins the maintenance phase of Quality Counts. This phase includes
continued setting of target dates, up to nine-hours per month of coaching support,
and individual career advising. The Early Learning Coach who supports this phase
may only be at the site 1-2 times per month.
Bottom Line: This is the phase that begins after the initial 18-month intensive time
period of Quality Counts.
Palm Beach State
College (formerly
PBCC)
Palm Beach Community College is now Palm Beach State College. Palm Beach
State College’s Institute of Excellence in Early Care and Education provides the child
care workforce of Palm Beach county with a comprehensive approach to career
development in the field of early childhood education. The Institute of Excellence
operates the SEEK scholarship program, the Palm Beach County Early Childhood
Registry, and develops and approves quality assured early childhood series trainings.
Practitioner
A Practitioner is a staff person who works in the field of early care and
education, inclusive of the various roles and positions in a program, who desires
further training and preparation in a core knowledge area in order to improve
performance in the processes and responsibilities of the job.
QIS: Quality
Improvement System
Quality Improvement System; term used for the 4 star program between 2005- 2009
QRIS: Quality Rating
Improvement System
A term used to describe the purpose of the Quality Counts program. Also, the title
used for various state programs that seek to advance the quality of early childhood
education programs.
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Appendix B: Glossary of Terms
Term
Definition
S.E.E.K.
The primary purpose of this program is to improve the quality of early childhood
education environments through staff development. To be considered for SEEK
Scholarship, an applicant must be employee at least 20 hours per week and be an
active member of the Palm Beach County Early Childhood Registry. A SEEK
Scholarship may be awarded to early childhood practitioners working directly with
children from birth to age five in family child care homes, child care centers, or
schools in Palm Beach County that hold a service agreement with Family Central,
Inc. (excluding informal providers).
Bottom Line: Various terms used when referring to a Child Care Center, Preschool, or
Day Care Center. They are interchangeable.
Site, Program or Facility
Staff Credential
A Staff Credential is an official State of Florida designation that means an individual's
professional education meets or exceeds the professional criteria set by the
Department of Children and Families. A staff credential is used by Florida childcare
providers to validate credentials and experience for licensing compliance, and as a
benchmark in the Quality Counts professional development pathway. (Formerly
CDA-E; See also FCCPC and ECPC)
T.E.A.C.H.
The T.E.A.C.H. program works with 48 colleges, universities and vocational technical
schools throughout the state as well as 14 community-based training institutions.
Under management of the Forum, the Florida T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Scholarship
Program serves as an umbrella for a variety of educational scholarship opportunities
for people working in early care and education programs including family child care
homes.
Using the Environment Rating Scales, the Forum provides Quality Counts and School
Readiness site Program Assessment Services, and administers the WAGE$ and
T.E.A.C.H. programs.
The WAGE$ program is designed to assist directors and owners with staff retention by
rewarding educational achievement and longevity. The WAGE$ Supplement
program provides education-based wage supplements to early childhood teachers
working with young children birth to five years of age. WAGE$ Supplements are
based on the Tier of education already attained and continued employment at a
Quality Counts program. Qualified individuals receive payment in six-month
increments after the recipient has been employed for one year in the same Quality
Counts program.
Bottom Line: A financial bonus to those who qualify
The Children’s Forum
WAGE$
Created 08/08/2011 by David B. Wells
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