High School Students Can Train to Support the Development of Young Children in Glendale, AZ

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors needed to support the development and learning of young children from birth through age eight. Students explore theories of child development, prenatal and early childhood growth, and developmentally appropriate practices across physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains. The program emphasizes health, safety, and nutrition; family and community engagement; observation and assessment strategies; and culturally responsive, play-based learning environments. Students gain hands-on experience through classroom labs, simulated learning centers, and community-based learning opportunities, while also developing essential professional and ethical practices. 

This is a Concurrent Enrollment program offered in partnership with Glendale Community College. Current Sophomore students may apply (early graduates may not apply) with an unweighted GPA of 2.0 or greater. West-MEC pays the college tuition, registration, and fees for students in Concurrent Enrollment programs, providing students with a great start in their postsecondary studies. Please download the information sheet to learn more about the program's requirements.

CAREER PATHWAYS

Students completing this program are well-prepared to pursue multiple pathways within the field of early childhood education and related professions. Students may begin their careers as teacher assistants, para-professionals, preschool aides, or childcare providers. Successfully earning industry credentials, such as the CPR/First Aid Card and CCL certificates, further enhances a student's employability and gives them a competitive edge when seeking positions that involve direct child development training.

With further education and training, students can advance into roles such as preschool or elementary teachers, child psychologists, speech-language pathologists, pediatric nurses, or social workers. The early childhood education program also serves as a strong foundation for post-secondary studies in education, psychology, or human development, preparing students to meet the growing workforce demand for highly skilled professionals who support the care, education, and well-being of young children and their families.

Industry Credentials & Career Advantage

As part of the Early Childhood Education Program, eligible students will have the opportunity to test for valuable, industry-recognized credentials. West-MEC covers the testing fees, providing students with a head start in their careers. These credentials demonstrate mastery and often provide a significant advantage in the job market.

High-Priority Employment Credentials: (Candidates with these are often given priority in hiring) 

• CPR & First Aid Card
• IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card (for students 18 and older)

Acknowledged Industry Credentials: (Relevant for employment in the field) 

• CCL (Certificate of Completion) 5054 Foundations of Early Childhood Education
• CCL (Certificate of Completion) 5056 Early Childhood Education

Please use the links on the right side of the page to view the Information Sheet, as well as to find campus directions, read the curriculum, or contact us for enrollment details. 

NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONOR SOCIETY (NTHS)

The purpose of NTHS is to recognize, honor, and promote student achievement and leadership in Career and Technical Education. The pillars of NTHS are: trustworthiness, respect, fairness, caring, and citizenship. 

Students have the opportunity to participate in NTHS after meeting eligibility criteria such as: high GPA at high school and in their West-MEC CTE program; CTSO/Volunteerism/Leadership, and outstanding professional conduct. Students who are inducted into NTHS wear stoles at the West-MEC Recognition ceremony to signify outstanding accomplishments.

This program is offered in partnership with Glendale Community College.

Don’t Wait! Secure Your Spot in the Early Childhood Education Program Today

Apply online at west-mec.edu/apply-now and begin your path toward a future-ready career in early childhood education.

Apply Now