State Initial Early Childhood Education Certificate (I-BEST), Certificate of Completion

The State Initial Early Childhood Education Certificate completes Step 5 of level 2 on the Washington State ECE Career Lattice.  It is the first step of the State of Washington Stackable Certificates that can ultimately lead to a two year degree in Early Childhood Education.  This 15 credit certificate teaches to and assess for the competencies comparable to the Child Development Associate.  The initial certificate may be a point of entry or a continuation of professional development from Level 1.

State Initial Certificate graduates will:

• be able to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children
• be prepared to monitor and make appropriate changes for safety in both the indoor and outdoor learning environment
• be able to plan and monitor a children’s menu following DEL guidelines
• be prepared to apply learning theory as it relates to children’s play in the learning setting
• be prepared to work as an entry level staff member in an early childhood setting
• be prepared to apply best practices in all interactions with children

It is the student’s responsibility to discuss sequencing and work out their individual schedule with a counselor or adviser. Any developmental coursework a student may be required to complete may increase the program length.

Program Admission Dates:  fall, spring