Roanoke-Chowan Community College Child Care Academy: Launch Your Career in Early Education!

Invest in Your Future—At No Cost!

The Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s (R-CCC) Child Care Academy is a specialized, accelerated training program designed in partnership with the NC Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE).
This initiative is part of the statewide effort to address the critical staffing shortage in early childhood education and quickly prepare dedicated individuals to enter the field as qualified professionals.
The best part? Thanks to the DCDEE Child Care Academy Grant (funded by the Preschool Development Grant Birth-Five), this comprehensive training is offered at absolutely no cost¹ to accepted participants.

Key Benefits for Candidates

By enrolling in the Child Care Academy, you gain more than just a certificate—you launch a supported career pathway:

100% Tuition-Free Training: All required coursework, materials, and specialized certifications are covered by the DCDEE grant.
Essential Industry Credentials: Complete all state-required basic training hours and competencies necessary for new childcare professionals.
Career Readiness Support: Receive support and guidance with the required DHHS Criminal Qualifying Background Check process.
Enhance Competencies: Gain specific, practical skills focused on quality care that align with North Carolina's highest standards.

What You Will Learn: Curriculum Highlights

R-CCC’s Child Care Academy is a two-week, on-campus program offering an engaging and intensive curriculum structured to meet or exceed DCDEE training standards, ensuring you are immediately prepared to work in a licensed facility. Our curriculum equips you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in early childhood education.

Topics	Details
Essential Resources for Early Childhood Professionals	Discover key organizations and tools such as NCRLAP, NAEYC, DCDEE, and Southwestern Child Development, and learn how these resources can support your success in the field.
Health & Safety Training	Gain critical knowledge through courses such as: • Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (ITS-SIDS) • Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment • Outdoor Play and Learning Environment Ensure safe, nurturing spaces for children in your care.
Foundational Knowledge	Strengthen your understanding of child development principles with the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development Training.
Professional Growth	Advance your career with training in goal setting, professionalism, and other essential skills for success.

Who Should Apply?

This Academy is designed primarily for individuals who are new to the early childhood education field and are committed to becoming professional childcare staff in North Carolina licensed centers. Completing this program will qualify you to work as a teacher assistant² in a licensed childcare facility.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
If you are passionate about working with young children and looking for a supported, fast-track entry into a stable career, the Child Care Academy is for you!

Eligibility

Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Participants must commit to attending the entire academy. Participants must arrive on time and stay for the entire academy day.
The academy is intended for participants that are NOT currently working in a licensed child care facility.

Ready to Get Started?

Apply now, space is limited. Complete this form to apply.
Child Care Academy Application – Fill out form

To inquire about upcoming session dates, please contact us today!

Program Coordinator: Marquita Moore-Raynor
Email: mmmoore-raynor@roanokechowan.edu or academics@roanokechowan.edu
Phone: 252-862-1350

¹Attendees will be responsible for the cost of the Background Check.
²The completion of EDU 3119 or 119 leads to the Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) and meets the requirements for the Lead Teacher position in Child Care Facilities in North Carolina.

The Roanoke-Chowan Community College Child Care Academy is funded through a grant from the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE), utilizing funds from the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5).