Apprenticeships Available with LCCAA Head Start

Like many employers of all types across the country, LCCAA Head Start has been working hard to recruit and retain high quality staff.

To promote the profession, LCCAA is starting an apprenticeship program. In addition to engaging area high school students, parents are invited to apply.

Apprentices will gain valuable experience and the opportunity to complete their Child Development Associate credential. If hired by LCCAA after completing their apprenticeship, they become eligible for tuition assistance. LCCAA encourages CDA-holding staff to go on to earn their associate’s degree through a partnership with Lorain County Community College.

“Staffing challenges have made keeping classrooms open difficult,” said Head Start Director Shauna Matelski. “This apprenticeship program is designed to increase the pool of qualified staff while providing opportunities for parents and community members.”

LouAnn Rhodes, Head Start Professional Development Specialist added, “This is a program that benefits all of the ECE field as we hope to add more qualified professionals working with young children and their families.”

Sharon Harmon, the new Apprentice Program Manager, is capitalizing on existing relationships with schools, community agencies and organizations to initiate the program. The goal is to have apprentices in classrooms this fall.

“Head Start is a family organization,” Harmon said. “They do so many good things for the community.”

If you are interested in an early childhood career in Head Start, and specifically Lorain County Community Action Agency, contact Sharon Harmon at sharmon@lccaa. net or (440) 457-0364.