23 Oct From Apprentice to Award Winner

How CSELC’s Teacher Training Program Launches Early Childhood Careers

Applications now open for Winter 2026 cohort – Apply at https://citci.org/citc-jobs/

When Inga Garcia joined the Clare Swan Early Learning Center (CSELC) Teacher Training Program, she was looking for a way to pursue early childhood education without sacrificing time with her family. What she found was a career-changing opportunity that would earn her national credentials, a steady income, and the foundation for a career in education.

“It was really beneficial to come into a program where part of the time we were doing the CDA work, and part of the time I was in the classroom with the kids working under teachers who had already gone through the CDA certification,” Inga explained. “It was really helpful to watch what they were doing.”

A Program That Supports the Whole Person

Twice a year, CSELC offers a Teacher Training Program designed to train, mentor, and support individuals pursuing careers in early childhood education. Teacher Apprentices receive paid training in a supportive cohort while earning their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential on the job. A CDA is a nationally recognized credential that opens doors in the early childhood education field.

For Inga, juggling education, work, and family felt overwhelming. The Teacher Training Program offered an alternative: pursue her CDA during work hours, with built-in mentorship and peer support. “It’s great to have a group of people doing it with you and to have a trainer who’s going to walk you through it,” she said.

What stood out most to Inga was how welcomed she felt from day one. “I didn’t feel like an apprentice. I felt like I was treated like anyone else—another teacher in the classroom. It was nice to feel like I had a part in the classroom and that I had a say in things.”

Building a Career

After completing the program, Inga taught toddlers and then preschool at CSELC. A few years later, she transitioned to become a home visitor in CSELC’s home visiting program, where she works today. In 2024, she received CITC’s Susten Individual Award, recognizing her determination and adaptability.

Inga credits the Teacher Apprenticeship for creating a powerful foundation in her career. “It really gave me the opportunity to feel like I am a professional in my field,” she said. “I love working with the kids, seeing them grow. I’m still connected with a lot of my families. It’s great to touch base with them and hear how wonderful they’re doing.”

Inga’s journey shows what’s possible when teachers are supported from the start. CSELC’s Teacher Training Program continues to turn passion into profession—one apprentice at a time.

To anyone considering the Teacher Apprentice path, Inga offers this encouragement: “Jump on the opportunity.”

Ready to start your career in early childhood education?

Applications for the Winter 2026 cohort are now open.

Learn more and apply: https://citci.org/citc-jobs/