CDA Pathways Program

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CDA Pathways Program

PATCH now offers a unique opportunity for high school students and Early Childhood Practitioners to earn The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

Get a jump start in your Early Child Education Career

Earning a CDA Credential jump-starts successful careers and channels faculty expertise. The CDA is the only portable, national and multi-language credential of its kind. A CDA opens career opportunities for thousands of graduates every year.
PATCH is committed to supporting Hawaii’s early childhood educators through individualized support and funding. Facilitated programs make it easier to obtain a CDA credential, helping educators advance their careers and remain in the field. Given Hawaii’s high cost of living and non-competitive wages for early educators, providing these resources is crucial. This support helps practitioners advance their knowledge and qualifications, improving their quality of life and encouraging them to continue working in Hawaii’s early childhood education sector.

The possibilities are endless!

There are many reasons to become an early childhood educator.

Earn while you learn: 

Earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential while gaining your work experience hours!
Impact on children:
More than 85% of brain development occurs from birth to age 5. As an early childhood educator, you can provide the safe, stable and nurturing learning environment that keiki need to grow and be more successful, in school and in life.
Room to grow:

You can get started in the field of early childhood education with no previous experience or education. There are a variety of pathways to build and advance your own career while providing quality care to Hawaii’s youngest keiki. Contact your local PATCH office and discuss your goals with a career counselor.

CDA Impact

Earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is a key stepping stone on the path of career advancement in Early Childhood Education. With your CDA Credential, your work with young children, increases likelihood of workforce interest and earn successful career opportunities.

Earn Your CDA NOW!

What can PATCH Do For You?

CDA Pathways Program – Participation in this CDA Program allows you to earn your CDA Credential through generous funding provided by community grants. This program offers mentorship and assistance through the entire CDA process and includes:

  • 120 hours of training with the Smart Horizon’s Training Package
  • Competency Standards Book
  • Competency Standards Book
  • Professional Portfolio Assistance
  • Covered CDA Application Fee
  • Program Stipend

Earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is a key stepping stone on the path of career advancement in Early Childhood Education. With your CDA Credential, your work with young children, increases likelihood of workforce interest and earn successful career opportunities.

Contact us for more information about this program!

For Additional Information
CDA Credential Process OVerview
CDA Credential Checklist
PATCH’s Early Childhood Education Scholarship
The PATCH ECE Scholarship provides reimbursement for ECE specific college courses, PACE workshops (converted to credit) or CDA Credential Assessment or Renewal Fees.
Scholarship Information