Early Learning Indiana’s Summer Fast-Track CDA Program

Early Learning Indiana’s mission to empower all children with essential skills to be successful in kindergarten and beyond cannot be accomplished without great teachers. That’s why we are so excited to announce a second Fast-Track Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential Program kicking off this May! 

The program is designed for early learning educators who want to advance their careers and increase the impact they have on young children. Most CDA programs are costly and take up to a year to complete. Early Learning Indiana’s Fast-Track CDA program is made possible by the generosity of the Lilly Endowment Inc. and will allow participants to earn their CDA credential in as little 12 weeks. 

In 2020, at the height of the pandemic when many teachers were facing reduced work hours due to limited enrollment, Early Learning Indiana rolled out the Fast-Track CDA Program to help teachers make the most of their downtime. We had over 800 applicants in just one month. We accepted 16 cohorts of early childhood educators, and 200 individuals have completed the program. 

The summer 2021 program will consist of 100 total individuals. Early Learning Indiana is reaching out to individuals who have previously applied but did not get the opportunity to participate due to overwhelming demand.  

Participants accepted into the program will complete 120 hours of course work over 12 weeks using an e-learning platform. All fees, including tuition, materials and assessments, will be covered by the program, an approximately $800 investment per participant. Participants will receive portfolio support from an early childhood education expert at Early Learning Indiana. Once their 120 hours are completed, participants will take the CDA exam to be certified.  

With the demand for early childhood educators growing, Early Learning Indiana is proud to make an impact on the supply of high-quality classroom support professionals who can help prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond.