Using the DECAL Scholars Program to Obtain the CDA Credential - post

Georgia's child care providers #play a pivotal role in shaping young minds. To support these dedicated professionals, the state offers the DECAL Scholars Program, an initiative designed to make earning the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential more accessible and affordable. For those working in #early-childhood-education, this program, combined with training from platforms like ChildCareEd, offers a clear path to achieving professional goals while minimizing financial strain.

Understanding the DECAL Scholars CDA Training Scholarship

The DECAL Scholars CDA Training Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible #early-childhood professionals in Georgia seeking to earn their CDA credential. The scholarship covers:

1. Training Costs: Up to $740 toward state-approved CDA training programs.
2. Exam Fees: $425 for the CDA exam.
3. Competency Standards Book: Up to $35.
4. Renewal Fee: $150 for CDA credential renewal​

Eligibility criteria include:

• Employment at a DECAL-licensed child care program for at least 30 days.
• Working a minimum of 15 hours per week.
• An active profile in the Georgia Professional Development System (GaPDS).
• U.S. citizenship or legal residency status.

Leveraging DECAL Scholars for ChildCareEd Training

ChildCareEd is a DECAL-approved CDA training provider, offering flexible, high-quality courses tailored to the needs of child care professionals. To utilize the DECAL Scholars program with ChildCareEd:

1. Set Up a ChildCareEd Account: Begin by creating a #free account on the ChildCareEd website.
2. Request an Invoice: After selecting your desired CDA training (Infant/Toddler, Preschool, or Family Child Care), request an invoice. This document is essential for applying for the DECAL Scholars scholarship.
3. Submit Your Application: Visit decalscholars.com to apply online. Attach the ChildCareEd invoice and other required documentation.

By choosing ChildCareEd, you benefit from affordable, accessible training that aligns with DECAL's standards, ensuring a seamless scholarship application process.

How to Maximize Financial Support Through POWER-ED

The DECAL Scholars program also includes the POWER-ED Workforce Supplements, which offer additional financial incentives for CDA candidates. These supplements reward participants as they progress through their training and work experience:

• First Payment: $1,000 after completing 120 hours of CDA training and 80 hours of work experience.
• Second Payment: $1,000 upon completing another 200 hours of work experience.
• Third Payment: $1,000 after finalizing the last 200 hours of work experience and earning the CDA credential.

To qualify, candidates must:

1. Complete each stage of training and work experience.
2. Submit a POWER-ED application along with supporting documentation, including certificates of completion and CDA verification forms.

The POWER-ED supplements not only alleviate the financial burden of earning the CDA credential but also recognize and reward the commitment of Georgia’s #early-childhood- #educators​(CDATrainingSCHOLARSHIPS…).

Steps to Obtain Your CDA Credential Using DECAL Scholars

1. Choose Your Training Provider: Select a DECAL-approved CDA training provider like ChildCareEd.
2. Apply for Scholarships: Submit the DECAL Scholars CDA Training Scholarship application with your ChildCareEd invoice.
3. Begin Training: Complete the required 120 hours of training and #develop your CDA portfolio.
4. Gain Work Experience: Accumulate 480 hours of work experience in the age group and setting matching your CDA credential type.
5. Apply for POWER-ED Supplements: Submit the POWER-ED application at each milestone.
6. Take the Exam: Use the DECAL Scholars CDA Exam Fee Scholarship to cover the $425 cost of the CDA exam.
7. Earn Your Credential: Receive your CDA from the Council for Professional Recognition.

Why Pursue the CDA Credential?

Earning a CDA credential enhances professional #development and improves outcomes for the children in your care. It signals to #parents and employers that you possess the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality early childhood education.

With financial support from DECAL Scholars and POWER-ED, combined with accessible training through ChildCareEd, Georgia’s child care professionals have the tools to achieve this vital credential affordably and efficiently.

Conclusion

The DECAL Scholars program empowers Georgia’s #early-childhood-educators to elevate their #careers through the CDA credential. By utilizing scholarships and workforce supplements, child care providers can reduce the financial burden of professional development. Platforms like ChildCareEd make this journey even smoother by offering approved training programs that align with DECAL's requirements.

Whether you’re just beginning your CDA training or are ready to take the final steps, DECAL Scholars and POWER-ED ensure that every child care professional in Georgia has the support they need to succeed. Visit decalscholars.com today to start your journey toward a brighter future in early childhood education.